About International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA):
- It is the world’s leading intergovernmental organisation for scientific and technical cooperation in the nuclear field.
- The IAEA is an autonomous organization within the United Nations system.
- It reports to both the United Nations General Assembly and the UN Security Council.
- Its primary goal is to ensure that nuclear energy is not diverted for weapons purposes.
- The IAEA works with its Member States and multiple partners worldwide to promote the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technologies.
- It is widely known as the world's "Atoms for Peace and Development" organization.
- Member Countries: The agency currently has 180 member states, reflecting its wide international mandate and credibility.
- Headquarters: Vienna, Austria.
- Institutional Structure:
- General Conference: The General Conference, composed of all member states, meets annually to approve budgets and set general policy directions.
- Board of Governors: The Board of Governors, comprising 35 members, meets about five times a year to: approve safeguards agreements, carry out statutory functions, and appoint the Director General.
- Secretariat: It is led by the Director General and handles the IAEA’s daily operations.
- Functions:
- Promoting Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy: The IAEA encourages the use of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, emphasizing sustainability and safety.
- Safety and Security: The agency establishes safety standards and provides assistance to ensure that nuclear operations are conducted safely and securely.
- Verification: The IAEA conducts inspections and monitoring to verify compliance with nuclear non-proliferation agreements.
