Which of the following is a key objective of nuclear surety?

The key objective of nuclear surety is centered on ensuring the safe management of nuclear materials and weapons. This involves implementing measures that protect against the unauthorized use, theft, or accident involving nuclear weapons, materials, and associated systems. The focus on safety and security safeguards human lives and the environment as well as maintains national and global security by preventing nuclear proliferation and related risks.

This objective encompasses a range of activities, including physical security measures, personnel reliability programs, and robust safety protocols that govern the handling, storage, and transportation of nuclear weapons. By prioritizing the safe management of nuclear assets, nuclear surety aims to minimize the chances of nuclear incidents and promote the responsible use of nuclear technology.

Other options do not align with the core principles of nuclear surety. For example, increasing the production of nuclear weapons contradicts the aim of controlling and securing existing nuclear stockpiles. Limiting access to nuclear energy research does not correlate with ensuring the safety of nuclear weapons, nor does it contribute to the management of nuclear materials. Encouraging competition between states for nuclear development can lead to instability and insecurity, countering the very essence of what nuclear surety strives to achieve, which is a stable and secure nuclear environment.