Former Directors General
Hans Blix, IAEA Director General from 1981 to 1997
Dr. Hans Blix of Sweden was head of the IAEA for sixteen years from 1981 to 1997. Dr. Blix guided the Agency through several crises - including the Chernobyl disaster, and Iraq and the DPRK's violation of their safeguards agreements. Under his direction the Agency enhanced its authority and role in international affairs, and bolstered the international legal regime for nuclear energy.
Dr Blix's analysis of the lessons of Iraq provided the framework for a strengthened safeguards programme - the most important development in international nuclear safeguards since the NPT safeguards system was set up in 1971. Dr. Blix headed the United Nations Monitoring and Verification Commission (UNMOVIC) from March 2000 to June 2003.
Sigvard Eklund, IAEA Director General from 1961 to 1981
Dr. Sigvard Eklund, a distinguished Swedish scientist was first appointed as IAEA Director General in 1961. He was reappointed four more times and held the post for twenty consecutive years until he retired and was named Director General Emeritus. It was during his tenure that the main scientific and technical programmes, including supporting research and analytical laboratories, were established and developed.
[In Memoriam, 30 January 2000]
Sterling Cole, IAEA Director General from 1957 to 1961
Mr. Sterling Cole of the United State was the first appointed IAEA Director General. He headed the Agency during its formative years, serving from 1957-61. A US Congressman, he had been the Chairman of the Joint Committee on Atomic Energy of the US Congress.