Burma's Nuclear Program: Domestic Dream or Regional Nightmare?

In: Australian quarterly: AQ, Band 76, Heft 2, S. 14-18

Abstract

Examines Burma's intention to build a nuclear reactor. International concerns focus on safety; the potential risk posed by Burma's armed insurgent groups; & the possibility of a future nuclear weapons program. These concerns were heightened by the report that the ruling State Peace & Development Council (SPDC) may enlist the assistance of North Korea. At the very least, the existence of a nuclear reactor would give the SPDC the means to develop a "dirty bomb" that could intimidate Burma's neighbors & be used as a bargaining chip against the West. However, in spite of the ruthlessness of Rangoon's military government, its active participation in global disarmament initiatives makes the pursuit of a nuclear weapons program seem unlikely. Although the SPDC insists the nuclear reactor is intended for peaceful research purposes, the possibility of developing a nuclear weapon increases both the instability of the strategic environment & the potential for Burma to be used as a Chinese satellite in the Asia-Pacific region. The US position toward Burma is described. J. Lindroth