Emerging Leaders Offer Bold Ideas for Strengthening Nuclear Security in a Changing World

Nuclear security is entering a period of profound transition, shaped by rising geopolitical tensions, emerging technologies, domestic political pressures, and growing threats to the people and institutions that sustain effective security systems. To highlight how the next generation of experts are grappling with today’s most urgent nuclear security challenges, NTI has published Rising to the Challenge: Emerging Leaders in Nuclear Security, a new collection of essays by early- and mid-career practitioners.

The essays examine a wide range of issues, including:

• Confronting how political polarization and democratic backsliding can weaken nuclear security norms and international cooperation
• Reducing the coercive value of threats against civilian nuclear infrastructure during periods of conflict and geopolitical tension
• Building crisis-resilient training systems capable of preparing operators and regulators for high-consequence disruptions
• Adapting security culture approaches to national and organizational differences rather than relying on one-size-fits-all models
• Ensuring the expansion of advanced nuclear technologies in sub-Saharan Africa is matched by strong governance and security
• Strengthening the role of civil society institutions in sustaining effective nuclear security governance
• Defending nuclear security experts from online harassment and intimidation that threaten to drive unique voices out of the field.

Together, the essays underscore that the future of nuclear security rests in the hands of the next generation of experts who will be responsible for adapting institutions, strengthening norms, anticipating and responding to emerging risks, and building the resilient, inclusive professional community needed to meet this moment and beyond.