IAEA and UNODC Joint Seminar Highlights Critical Need for Global Nuclear Security Instruments

IAEA and UNODC experts presented the synergies between the A/CPPNM and ICSANT and the legislative and technical assistance available to countries.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) underscored the significance and advantages of key international legal instruments in nuclear security at a joint seminar held from June 18 to 20, 2024. The seminar aimed to encourage universal adherence to the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (A/CPPNM) and the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism (ICSANT), and to support countries in implementing these instruments.

The seminar attracted 64 participants from 40 countries that have not yet become parties to either the A/CPPNM or ICSANT. The event emphasized the importance of these instruments in strengthening the global nuclear security architecture and the necessity of robust international collaboration to effectively address common threats such as nuclear terrorism.

IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and UNODC Executive Director Ghada Fathy Waly, in their joint opening address, highlighted the role of A/CPPNM and ICSANT in bolstering legislative and regulatory frameworks to enhance global nuclear security.

"It's a real benefit to have the unique strengths of our two organizations come together for this important topic. We need to reduce as much as possible the chance of nuclear or radioactive material being used to cause pain and panic," said Director General Grossi. He added, "Getting nuclear security right is crucial so that nuclear power can play its part in providing the low-carbon energy needed to reach our climate and energy security goals."

UNODC Executive Director Waly stressed the importance of strong frameworks for criminal deterrence and accountability, stating, "We must have strong frameworks for criminal deterrence and accountability. UNODC and IAEA are determined to help make these international legal instruments universal."

Prominent figures including the ambassadors of Canada and the United States of America, and the Head of the UN Section at the European Union Delegation in Vienna, attended the seminar. They underscored the importance of both instruments and the need for continuous international cooperation.

IAEA and UNODC experts presented the synergies between the A/CPPNM and ICSANT and the legislative and technical assistance available to countries. The seminar featured a comprehensive fictional case study to explore the benefits of adherence to and implementation of these instruments. Participants actively discussed and shared information on their current status and plans regarding joining the A/CPPNM and ICSANT, identifying several challenges such as limited awareness and resource constraints.

As of June 2024, there are 164 parties to the CPPNM, with 136 having joined the Amendment. South Africa became the latest party to the A/CPPNM in February 2024. With the adherence of Palau in February 2024, there are currently 124 parties to ICSANT.

The joint seminar concluded with a call to action, urging countries to join and implement these key legal instruments to ensure a safer and more secure world.