nti

NTI, or Nuclear Threat Initiative, is a nonprofit, nonpartisan policy organization focused on reducing threats from weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons, and the illicit trafficking of such materials. Founded in 2001 by Ted Turner and former U.S. Senator Sam Nunn, NTI conducts policy analysis, supports international diplomacy, and promotes practical security measures. The organization is based in Washington, D.C.

Since its founding, NTI has sought to elevate nonproliferation issues on national and international agendas. It pursues research, publishes reports, and engages governments, international organizations, and civil society to advance material security, export controls, and biosecurity norms. It has helped develop and publicize policy initiatives and monitoring tools such as security indices that benchmark progress.

NTI runs programs in nuclear threat reduction, biosecurity, and chemical weapons safety, coordinating with partner institutions and policymakers to craft treaties, strengthen oversight, and support implementation of verification mechanisms.

Governance and funding: NTI operates as a nonprofit with a board of directors and staff, supported by philanthropic contributions from individuals and foundations. It reports financials in annual disclosures and maintains partnerships with universities and think tanks.

Impact and reception: NTI is widely cited as an influential voice in nonproliferation policy, advising governments and international bodies. Critics note that as a privately funded organization, its agenda can be affected by donor priorities, underscoring the importance of transparency and corroboration with other sources.