Fusion and Nonproliferation

As fusion energy technologies move closer to commercial viability, their implications for nuclear nonproliferation require careful reassessment. Key concerns include the diversion of tritium for military purposes, the production of weapon-grade plutonium using fusion neutrons, and the dual-use potential of laser/inertial confinement fusion facilities for nuclear weapons development. Against this backdrop, the international nonproliferation community faces regulatory and verification gaps. The current safeguards regime is material-centric and does not fully accommodate fusion technologies or their potential to indirectly contribute to fissile material production. Clarification of the legal status of fusion installations and the development of verification methods are therefore necessary. Strategies for mitigating proliferation risks include the integration of safeguards-by-design in early-stage reactor concepts, international standardization of monitoring frameworks, and fostering dialogue between fusion research and nonproliferation communities.  Early coordination among fusion developers, safeguards experts, and international institutions is essential to ensure that the development of fusion energy aligns with global nonproliferation goals.