ABSTRACT

In the nuclear field, the process was notable for its cooperative nature and Libya's desire to involve the International Atomic Energy Authority (IAEA) so that the international community could verify the proceedings. The process involved a 'phased' approach to dismantlement which was eventually, linked to the incremental provision of rewards by the United States, including the gradual removal of restrictions and sanctions on Libya. During the dismantlement process an emphasis was placed on assisting Libya to implement its decision and on not punishing the Gadhafi regime for its past Weapons of mass destruction (WMD) activities, at the same time as verifying the authenticity of its commitment to disarm. Dismantling Libya's nuclear infrastructure proved to be a relatively straightforward exercise because the Gadhafi regime had taken a unilateral and strategic decision to give up its pursuit of nuclear weapons.