IAEA Director General Highlights Agency’s Role in Global Non-Proliferation, Nuclear Security and Safety at Nuclear Law Workshop

At @Georgetown University today, I spoke about @IAEAorg’s mission of 'Atoms for Peace,' a role we’ve led since our establishment in 1957. In our work, we turn atoms of war into atoms of peace, managing nuclear verification, safety, security & peaceful use of nuclear tech. pic.twitter.com/mH0tsQ2JRE

— Rafael MarianoGrossi (@rafaelmgrossi) October 23, 2024

Mr Grossi also spoke about the immense promise of nuclear science and technology, ranging from small modular reactors (SMRs) to radiotherapy for cancer treatment, in addressing global challenges such as climate change, health and food and energy insecurity.

Workshop participants attended expert lectures and panels on IAEA safeguards and non-proliferation as well as sessions on the legal frameworks for nuclear safety and civil liability for nuclear damage led by IAEA experts. From protection to prevention and minimization of radiation risks, to the mitigation of consequences in the event of a nuclear accident, nuclear safety is a prerequisite for nuclear power. Mechanisms for compensation and civil liability for nuclear damage provide the legal certainty needed by the public, industry, lenders and investors. 

IAEA’s Legal Adviser and Assistant Director General Peri Lynne Johnson said: “This IAEA-led workshop under the umbrella of three universities, provides a unique opportunity to address the importance of nuclear law to stakeholders from academia, industry and lawfirms.”

The final day of the workshop took as its theme “The Law of Nuclear Security in the Midst of World Challenges”. Ms Johnson gave a keynote address on the legal framework for nuclear security and how it can mitigate the risks of nuclear terrorism. A discussion followed on the role of international law in nuclear security and conflict.

The IAEA applies safeguards in more than 190 States. Its inspectors carry out activities to verify that countries are fulfilling their international commitments not to use nuclear material and technology for nuclear-weapons purposes. The global Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and regional nuclear-weapon-free zone treaties entrust the IAEA with these verification responsibilities.

By ensuring the peaceful use of nuclear material and technology around the world through the implementation of legally binding instruments, the IAEA contributes to the maintenance of international peace and security, including adherence to  international law.

Question and answer sessions following both of Mr Grossi’s keynote addresses gave participants the opportunity to find out more about nuclear safety and security, safeguards, nuclear law and peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology. 

Students and young professionals attending the workshop also had the chance to learn more about career opportunities in nuclear law and humanitarian law, including opportunities at the United Nations and the IAEA, as well as at intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations.