M.F.A. Pratomo1 , H. Yasmine2 , S.S. Retnoasih2
1Nanyang Technological University
2-
Abstract:
Indonesia has consistently supported nuclear non-proliferation: Despite this, the Indonesian public still perceives all 'nuclear issues' in the pejorative, limited sense of 'nuclear weapon issues'. Therefore, it is important that both stakeholders and practitioners are familiar with the aspects surrounding nuclear weapons, most importantly the treaties which constrain them, in order to answer the most common topics of public inquiry without misleading. Correct information pertaining the issue is important, both to raise public awareness and counter negative perceptions on nuclear issues. This study aims to measure the degree of understanding about nuclear weapons and non-proliferation issues, as held by the stakeholders and practitioners belonging to nuclear-related institutions within Indonesia. The study was conducted using a dichotomous answer questionnaire with True/False answers consisting of 12 questions, split into 4 sections: nuclear weapons testing, the CTBT and Indonesia's role in non-proliferation treaties, detection methods for nuclear tests, and the use of nuclear weapons. The questionnaire was distributed among the personnel of the National Nuclear Energy Agency (BATAN) and the Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency (BAPETEN). The results show that cursory understanding of 'popular' issues among nuclear-related personnel is still lacking, despite said personnel being the most likely targets of public inquiry.
