DEVELOPMENT OF DATA COLLECTING TOOLS TO SUPPORT THE ESTABLISHMENT OF NATIONAL NUCLEAR FORENSICS CAPABILITY IN SOUTHEAST ASIA REGION

Abstract

Nuclear forensics is recognized as an important part of maintaining nuclear security in any country, regardless of whether the country utilizes nuclear and radioactive materials or not. It is an effective tool in determining the origin of detected nuclear and other radioactive materials, and in providing evidence for the prosecution of acts of illicit trafficking and malicious use. The objective of this study is to develop a questionnaire to be used as a tool to self-evaluate the existing national capability in nuclear forensics in order to provide analysis of weaknesses or gaps in the overall system that require attention. The questionnaires is developed based on the guideline of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and is reviewed by experts from various countries for its completeness and usability. Although the questionnaire has been reviewed by experts from several Southeast Asia member states and is expected to be used especially by the ASEAN, it contains no country specific part and may be used by any country that needs to know its current capability