Regulatory Infrastructure Development Projects (RIDP)

A Regulatory Infrastructure Development Project (RIDP) is an IAEA technical assistance mechanism supporting countries in establishing or enhancing the national regulatory infrastructure for radiation safety and for security of radioactive material. An effective national infrastructure is based upon legislative and regulatory framework and implemented by adequately empowered and resourced competent authorities, including an independent regulatory body.

This assistance is provided in the overall context of promoting sustainable socio-economic development, while supporting States in creating and enabling environment for the safe, secure and peaceful application of nuclear technology.

There are currently three active RIDPs supporting countries in building strong regulatory infrastructure in Africa and Latin America and the Caribbean regions.

Project activities involve different IAEA resources, including expert missions, regional and national trainings and advisory missions in areas related to setting down national policy and strategy for radiation safety and security of radioactive materials. These activities include enhancing existing regulatory frameworks, building competences to exercise core regulatory functions – such as authorization of facilities and activities, review and assessment, development of regulations and guides, and inspection and enforcement – and setting up management system in the regulatory bodies. Furthermore, the project also provides assistance in establishing and enhancing effective physical protection systems of radioactive material.

RIDPs are designed and customized to strengthen existing regulatory infrastructure through a flexible open-ended programming approach, tailored to address both known and unforeseen needs of target countries in an effective, efficient and timely manner.