IAEA Reviews Global Nuclear Emergency Readiness

IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security, Karine Herviou, highlighted the progress achieved through decades of international cooperation.

More than 250 representatives from 114 countries and six international organizations have gathered in Vienna this week for a major meeting focused on strengthening global preparedness for nuclear and radiological emergencies. Hosted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Representatives of Competent Authorities Meeting (CAM) is taking place from 8 to 12 June 2026. Held every two years, the event serves as a key platform for reviewing international emergency response arrangements and identifying priorities for future improvements.

The meeting comes at a significant moment, marking 40 years since the adoption of two landmark international agreements established in the aftermath of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster — the Convention on Early Notification of a Nuclear Accident and the Convention on Assistance in the Case of a Nuclear Accident or Radiological Emergency. These agreements form the foundation of the global system for sharing information, coordinating assistance and responding to nuclear or radiological incidents that may affect multiple countries.

Four decades of cooperation shape future priorities

IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security, Karine Herviou, highlighted the progress achieved through decades of international cooperation. She noted that the emergency contact networks, information-sharing platforms, assistance arrangements and coordination procedures in place today are the result of sustained efforts by national authorities and the IAEA over the past four decades. A special session scheduled during the meeting will commemorate the anniversary of the two conventions while exploring how emergency preparedness systems must evolve to address emerging challenges.

One of the key topics under discussion is the rapid development of advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors and microreactors. These next-generation designs are attracting growing interest worldwide as countries seek low-carbon energy solutions. Meeting Chair Rosa Sardella of Switzerland's Federal Nuclear Safety Inspectorate said these technologies present new opportunities but also raise important questions about emergency planning and response requirements. Participants are examining how existing international arrangements can adapt to support the safe deployment of these innovative nuclear systems.

New tools and exercises strengthen preparedness

The meeting is also providing updates on several initiatives designed to improve international emergency coordination and response capabilities. Among them is the IAEA's Unified System for Information Exchange in Incidents and Emergencies (USIE), a secure platform that enables countries to rapidly share information during nuclear or radiological emergencies.

Recent upgrades to the system include stronger cybersecurity protections, improved mobile access and faster communication between more than 200 emergency contact points around the world. Delegates are also reviewing progress made through the IAEA Response and Assistance Network (RANET), which coordinates international support when countries request help during emergencies.

The network was tested extensively over the past year, including during the large-scale ConvEx-3 emergency exercise conducted in Romania in June 2025 and a separate joint assistance team exercise held in Japan earlier this year. Another focus area is the International Radiation Monitoring Information System (IRMIS), which collects radiation monitoring data from participating countries. The number of countries voluntarily contributing data has increased to 54, reflecting growing international engagement in radiation monitoring efforts.

IAEA Incident and Emergency Centre Director Amgad Shokr emphasized that preparedness depends not only on technology and procedures but also on well-trained personnel capable of responding effectively under pressure. Officials expect the meeting's recommendations to help strengthen emergency preparedness and response systems across all IAEA Member States, reinforcing international cooperation and ensuring faster information sharing and assistance when emergencies occur.