International efforts in countering radiological terrorism

An analysis of the possible goals of terrorists and the means of achieving them leads to an assessment of the most likely target materials and facilities for radiological terrorism. International efforts in countering these terrorist goals cover several objectives. The first is to prevent acquisition of the target radioactive materials, or access to the target facilities. This has to be achieved throughout the life cycle for radioactive sources. The second objective is to detect attempts to acquire, or actual acquisition of, radioactive materials. The third objective is to effectively detect and respond to the use (or threat of use) of these materials, or sabotage of the facilities. An additional goal is to minimize the consequences of any such use or sabotage. The number of international bodies, groups, agencies, and organizations contributing to these goals is very large and almost impossible to catalogue. However, this paper groups the types of efforts that are being undertaken, identifies the key agencies involved, and provides some specific examples of their work.