The NSG contributes to the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons through the development of two sets of Guidelines for nuclear exports and nuclear-related exports[1] which are implemented on a national basis by its 48 Participating Governments.

A growing number of United Nations (UN) Member States have fulfilled their obligations in relation to UN Security Council Resolution 1540 (2004) by implementing effective export, transit and trans-shipment controls on a national basis.

States may choose unilaterally to adhere to the NSG Guidelines without taking the step of applying to become an NSG Participating Government. This shows a commitment to implement on a national basis an export control system for nuclear and dual-use items based on an existing and well-functioning model, and represents a visible expression of support of international efforts towards the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and of their means of delivery.

States that wish to make a unilateral declaration of adherence to the Guidelines should send an official communication to the Director-General of the IAEA stating that the government will act in accordance with the Guidelines. This communication is to be intended for publication in the INFCIRC series.

Neither the NSG nor the Participating Governments have any active role in verifying unilateral declarations of adherence, which provide no rights or privileges to a non-Participating Government. If a state wants to become an NSG Participating Government, it has to apply (see the Participants Section). As one of the factors to be considered for participation, a Government must have previously adhered to the Guidelines.

The NSG is open to informing those states that have made a unilateral declaration of adherence to the Guidelines about relevant developments within the NSG, especially regarding the Guidelines and the control lists (updates and revisions).

 1] Guidelines for the Export of Nuclear Material, Equipment and Technology, and the Guidelines for Transfers of Nuclear Related Dual-Use Equipment, Materials, Software and Related Technology (respectively comprising IAEA publications INFCIRC/254/Part 1 as amended and INFCIRC/254/Part 2 as amended, including their Annexes.