Beyond Infrastructure: Nuclear Security and Regulatory Alignment in the Balkans (2015–2025)
Abstract
This article explores how nuclear security has acquired a distinct and increasingly regulatory character in the Balkans between 2015 and 2025. Rather than being driven by military competition or strategic rivalry, nuclear security in the region has evolved primarily through institutional coordination, regulatory preparedness, and sustained engagement with international norms. While much of the existing literature approaches the Balkans through the perspective of energy geopolitics and infrastructure-centered security concerns, this study draws attention to a quieter but consequential transformation taking place in the regulatory domain. Focusing on Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, the article demonstrates that nuclear security follows different national trajectories shaped by uneven nuclear infrastructure and varying institutional capacities. Bulgaria and Romania reflect continuity-oriented approaches grounded in the oversight of operating nuclear facilities, whereas Serbia engages with nuclear security in a precautionary and forward-looking manner despite the absence of nuclear power infrastructure. Türkiye occupies a distinct position within this regional landscape. Its approach is informed by direct regulatory and operational experience, yet it remains oriented toward internal institutional consolidation rather than outward power projection.
Keywords
- Balkans
- non-military security
- regulatory cooperation
- Nuclear security
- Regional security complex
- Türkiye
Ethical Statement
References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
European and Region Studies, Political Theory and Political Philosophy, Political Science Methodology, International Foundation, International Politics, Political Science (Other)
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Bahar Akın
*
Türkiye
Publication Date
September 21, 2026
Submission Date
July 9, 2026
Acceptance Date
September 21, 2026
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Number: 29