The IAEA works with States to establish national Nuclear Security Support Centres (NSSCs) to strengthen the sustainability of nuclear security. The International Network for Nuclear Security Training and Support Centres (NSSC Network) facilitates cooperation among NSSCs.
International Network for Nuclear Security Training and Support Centres
Nuclear Security Support Centres
NSSCs contribute to sustaining the national nuclear security regime by supporting competent authorities, authorized persons, and other organizations with nuclear security responsibilities. Main NSSC functions are:
- Human resource development, specifically through the provision of a national nuclear security training programme;
- Technical support services for nuclear security equipment lifecycle management; and
- Scientific support services for provision of expertise, analysis, and research and development for nuclear security.
The Centres also foster nuclear security culture and enhance national coordination and collaboration among organizations involved in nuclear security. The IAEA Technical Document titled Establishing and Operating a National Nuclear Security Support Centre (Revision of IAEA-TECDOC-1734) outlines the role of NSSCs in sustaining nuclear security and details a step-by-step, systematic process for establishing an NSSC and ensuring its effectiveness over the long term.
NSSC Network
The Network aims to:
- Strengthen information sharing;
- Identify good practices; and
- Facilitate cooperation and joint activities among States with NSSCs and States interested in establishing centres.
The Network's Annual Meeting, held in the first quarter, is open to all IAEA Member States. Working Groups and regional groups also meet separately to work on specific tasks. NSSC Network Membership is open to all IAEA Member States. Requests for Membership should be sent through official channels to the IAEA.