ABSTRACT
Experience and the writings of theorists provide an empirical and theoretical foundation for defining institutions that could apply the preventive medicine necessary to the health of worldwide nuclear development. The nuclear control regime can survive only by recognizing overlapping national interests and reinforcing those interests through institutions having authority, independence, a clear mandate, and analytical criteria that include both carrots and sticks. The history of the international nuclear regime and that of related national regulatory institutions suggest that the success of compliance mechanisms depends on nations recognizing their own interest in minimizing the threats posed by nuclear energy. Military capabilities vary widely—some states have nuclear weapons and advanced delivery systems, others rely upon sophisticated conventional weapons, and still others have relatively unsophisticated arms. The board would assess the security implications of nuclear exports and anticipate and prevent violations of international security in keeping with its charter.
