A COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF CBRN MANAGEMENT IN TÜRKİYE WITHIN THE FRAMEWORKS OF THE IHR, NATO, SENDAI FRAMEWORK, IAEA, AND ADR

Abstract

Purpose This article aims to analyze Türkiye’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) risk management capacity within the framework of national legislation and evaluate its alignment with key international frameworks, including the International Health Regulations (IHR), NATO standards, the Sendai Framework, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and the ADR.

Design The study adopts a qualitative document analysis method. Relevant national legislation and regulatory documents are comparatively examined in terms of technical capacity, institutional structure, coordination, and integration. Data are analyzed using a deductive coding approach based on thematic categories derived from international frameworks.

Findings Indicate that Türkiye possesses a well-developed infrastructure in the CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) sector, particularly in terms of technical capacity and sector-specific expertise. Biological risk monitoring and early warning systems demonstrate strong alignment with the IHR, while nuclear and radiological safety mechanisms comply with IAEA standards. Chemical risk management and the transport of hazardous materials largely align with the Sendai and ADR frameworks. However, despite this strong technical capacity, sufficient integration within a comprehensive governance model has not been achieved. Key weaknesses include limited interagency coordination, unclear command and control mechanisms, and a fragmented structure among CBRN components. This study contributes to the literature by conceptualizing CBRN risk management through the relationship between capacity and integration. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive governance model to strengthen institutional coordination, clarify command and control structures, and enhance overall system effectiveness.