ABSTRACT
The Non-Proliferation Treaty entered into force in 1970 commits non-nuclear-weapons signatories to avoid acquiring, controlling, or manufacturing nuclear weapons or other explosive nuclear devices. Four principal international accords currently address nuclear security risks: the Non-Proliferation Treaty, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards, nuclear suppliers agreements, and the 1977 Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions on the law of war. The IAEA also publishes a series of safety guidelines dealing with regulatory responsibilities, nuclear facility siting, design and operation, and quality assurance. The updated guidelines stipulate that suppliers should sell only nuclear materials and equipment that would trigger application of IAEA safeguards. In 1977 the United States initiated the International Nuclear Fuel Cycle Evaluation, a study of alternatives to advanced fuel cycles using plutonium and highly enriched uranium. The 1977 Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949, relating to the Protection of Victims of International Armed Conflicts, addresses the legitimacy of wartime destruction of nuclear power plants.
