GS II-International organisation
- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is the world’s foremost intergovernmental body for fostering scientific and technical collaboration in the nuclear field.
- It is dedicated to promoting the safe, secure, and peaceful application of nuclear science and technology, in accordance with international non-proliferation standards.
- The IAEA’s foundational Statute was adopted on 23 October 1956 and entered into force on 29 July 1957.
- Its headquarters are located in Vienna, Austria.
- With 178 member states, the IAEA’s broad membership underscores its international mandate and credibility.
Legal Status and Global Role
The IAEA functions as an autonomous entity within the United Nations system.
It reports to both the United Nations General Assembly and the UN Security Council.
Often dubbed the “Atoms for Peace and Development” organization within the UN framework, the IAEA’s primary mission is to ensure that nuclear energy is not misused for military purposes.
Organizational Structure
- General Conference: Composed of all member states, it meets annually to set broad policy directions and approve the agency’s budget.
- Board of Governors: Consisting of 35 members, it convenes approximately five times a year to:
- Approve safeguards agreements,
- Fulfill statutory obligations, and
- Appoint the Director General.
- Secretariat: Led by the Director General, it manages the agency’s daily operations.
Core Functions
The IAEA’s main focus is to ensure that nuclear technology is exclusively used for peaceful purposes.
To achieve this, it applies comprehensive safeguards, including:
- Monitoring,
- On-site inspections,
- Data analysis, and
- Other verification techniques.
These safeguards serve as the primary mechanism for upholding the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
The IAEA also strengthens national, regional, and international capacities to respond to nuclear or radiological emergencies.
Moreover, it promotes scientific collaboration and technical knowledge-sharing among its member states.