NSFA Research

Numerous African countries could benefit from nuclear power, given rising rates of economic development, population growth, and consumer electricity demand. In light of these needs, China and Russia have expanded cooperation in the development of civilian nuclear energy on the African continent over the last two decades. This report draws on original quantitative data tracking…

In this report, we provide an overview of the security environment confronting countries with sensitive nuclear facilities. First, we detail deliberate attacks on nuclear facilities and the vulnerabilities that expose these facilities to internal and external threats. Then, we review terrorist violence cross-nationally and over time, focusing specifically on attacks against critical infrastructure, such as…

This report examines the direct and indirect economic and political costs associated with accidental or deliberate nuclear security incidents at nuclear facilities. It analyzes the immediate and long-term economic impacts, including loss of life, property damage, disruptions to electricity generation, and broader social and behavioral effects such as changes in public risk perception and government…

The rise of Hindu nationalism, especially following the election of the Bharatiya JanataParty (BJP) in 2014 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has put a sharperfocus on the long-standing struggle over the nature of India’s political and cultural identity. Within the Hindu nationalist frame, any part of India’s culture or history associated with…

This paper examines the evolution of terrorism in Kenya and the country’s growing role in counterterrorism efforts in the Horn of Africa. It explores how Kenya transitioned from one of the region’s most stable nations to a frontline state in the global fight against violent extremism, highlighting major terrorist attacks by Al Qaeda and Al-Shabaab,…

The relationship between the United States and Pakistan has experienced dramatic shifts since Pakistan’s independence in 1947, alternating between close strategic partnership and deep political distrust. This policy brief examines the historical factors that have shaped this volatility, arguing that the relationship has been driven primarily by changing national security priorities rather than enduring diplomatic…

This paper examines the historical roots and recent developments of the Kurdish independence movement in Iraq, focusing on the 2017 independence referendum and its political, economic, and security implications. It explores the longstanding tensions between the Kurdistan Regional Government and Iraq’s central government, the strategic importance of Kirkuk and its oil reserves, and the influence…

This policy brief examines the impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on the security, political, and economic landscape of Pakistan’s Balochistan province. It traces the historical roots of Baloch separatism, emphasizing longstanding grievances over political marginalization, resource exploitation, and limited economic opportunities. The brief argues that while CPEC has strengthened the strategic partnership between…

The violence in Yemen has escalated in the wake of the Saudi-led air strikes over the past two years against the northern Houthi rebels. High civilian casualties have marked this campaign, with a March 2017 strike against a market, for example, killing 20 civilians along with 6 rebels. The Houthis too have targeted civilian populations.…

For the past 15 years, the drone has become one of America’s premier tools in its counterterrorism campaign, being deployed in Yemen, Somalia, Pakistan, Libya, and Syria. It is viewed as a means of combating terrorism without putting boots on the ground. However, the use of drones has not been without controversy, as critics have…