IAEA General Conference 2024: «ENSI is committed to strengthening global nuclear safety and security»

25 September 2024 News, Posts, International Affairs

ENSI participated in the 68th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency IAEA in Vienna from 16 to 20 September 2024. This year, more than 150 member states gathered under the motto «Sustainability and Safety for a Better Future» to discuss the current challenges and future prospects of nuclear energy.

The Swiss delegation comprised representatives of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA, the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports DDPS, the Swiss Federal Office of Energy SFOE and ENSI. «The General Conference is an opportunity not only for member states to present their positions and proposals, but also for experts to learn about the latest advances and challenges in the field of nuclear energy and nuclear safety», said ENSI Director General Marc Kenzelmann on the IAEA General Conference 2024. «ENSI participates in the General Conference every year and positions itself to strengthen global nuclear safety and security. »

Nuclear energy is gaining in importance worldwide

One of the main topics of the IAEA conference was the role of nuclear energy in the global energy mix. In view of the need to combat climate change, nuclear energy is becoming increasingly important internationally. The conference provided a platform for exchanging information on new technologies and developments. In this context, the Swiss Federal Nuclear Safety Inspectorate (ENSI) has emphasised the importance of nuclear safety, regardless of the technology used.

Nuclear safety and international standards

Another important topic was the improvement of nuclear safety and protection against nuclear threats. The IAEA emphasised the need to strengthen international standards and nuclear safety to minimise risks and ensure the peaceful use of nuclear energy, particularly in view of the current situation in Ukraine.

In addition to the political discussions, there were numerous technical sessions and workshops during the conference that addressed innovative developments in nuclear technology and nuclear safety research: these include the application of artificial intelligence in nuclear facilities, Small Modular Reactors (SMR) and the developments in international regulations that are necessary to respond to these changes. The topic of promoting diversity and young talent was also discussed on various occasions.

The conference ended with the adoption of various resolutions and recommendations aimed at improving global standards for the use of nuclear energy and nuclear safety and strengthening co-operation between member states.

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