ABSTRACT

This chapter provides an overview of the nuclear security regime in Belgium, as well as the current and upcoming challenges. For several years, numerous political and legal efforts have been initiated to address the threat of nuclear terrorism by enhancing nuclear security. Establishing a strong nuclear security regime in Belgium is crucial. Indeed, being one of the precursors in the field of nuclear energy research and development in Europe, the country is hosting numerous facilities as part of the civil nuclear fuel cycle. It will first describe the structure and mandate of the Federal Agency for Nuclear Control, which is protecting the population against the dangers of ionizing radiation. It will then discuss the existing legislative framework covering the physical protection of nuclear materials, facilities, and documents as well as the interactions among the various stakeholders. Regarding nuclear security, the department mainly works to minimize the risk of illegal possession, theft, and sabotage of nuclear and radioactive materials and facilities.