International Cooperation in Nuclear Energy Through the Prism of IAEA Standards
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17605/cajssh.v7i1.1269Keywords:
International nuclear cooperation, IAEA safety standards, peaceful use of nuclear energy, nuclear governance and regulation, nuclear safety and security, international nuclear law, compliance with international standardsAbstract
A peaceful use of atomic energy requires international cooperation, security, safety, and nonproliferation standards. International atomic energy cooperation is influenced by IAEA standards. As an international safety authority, the IAEA develops standards and guidelines that become national standards. Using IAEA statutory mandates, security conventions, and nuclear project cases, our analysis compares soft law standards with international obligations that are mandatory. Despite not being legally binding, IAEA security standards are global pillars of nuclear security. The standards contribute to a common security culture, allow for technology exchange with strict guarantees, and are often incorporated into bilateral and multilateral agreements. International nuclear cooperation cannot be safe and effective without adhering to the standards set by the IAEA Atomic Energy Bank, new nuclear energy programs, and expert evaluation missions. Standards from the IAEA aren't formally voluntary, but they are often incorporated into national laws and international agreements, making atomic energy more secure, safe, and resilient.
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