Political Similarity and the Dynamics of the Global Nuclear Trade Network

Abstract

This study investigates the dynamics of nuclear trade among countries from 2006 to 2021 using ERGM and TERGM analyses. The results reveal three key conclusions. First, as countries become more politically similar, their engagement in nuclear trade becomes more active, emphasizing the significance of political similarity in promoting nuclear trade relationships. Second, countries with greater political differences tend to impede the formation of nuclear trade, highlighting political disparities as a potential barrier to cooperation. Finally, the study finds that countries involved in the global nuclear trade network maintain reciprocal relationships, indicating the presence of mutual benefits and interdependence. These findings contribute to understanding the factors influencing nuclear trade and suggest the importance of fostering politically similar partnerships for successful collaboration in the nuclear industry.