Nothing can replace experience, the old saying goes, and the IAEA is working to ensure that experience and knowledge in nuclear regulation is shared among States. Through the recently-launched Regulatory Cooperation Forum, the IAEA supports nuclear newcomer countries in their efforts to launch safe, secure and sustainable nuclear power programmes.
While the Forum is Member-driven, the IAEA has the role of facilitating and promoting coordination and collaboration among regulators, so that States can learn from the breadth of international experience available.
"The kinds of requests we receive from newcomers are extremely demanding," said Denis Flory, IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of Department of Nuclear Safety and Security.
"Naturally, as IAEA we have an array of services available to Member States, but real life experience is irreplaceable. Many States know where they are now and where they would like to be. However, this is not an easy path," explained Flory.
"The best way to get through this evolution is through the guidance of those who have already gone the way."
Members of the Forum met today in Vienna under the IAEA´s aegis to discuss strategies and plans for the coming months. Coordination and information sharing is seen as a crucial tool to address the needs of nuclear newcomers and guarantee effective regulations are in place across the world´s nuclear sector.
Background
Representatives from State regulatory bodies that met at the 2009 IAEA Conference on Effective Nuclear Regulatory Systems held in Cape Town, South Africa, agreed to establish a Forum to provide effective coordination and collaboration among requesting Member States and those asked to provide regulatory support.
The Regulatory Cooperation Forum held its inception meeting on 21 June 2010.