The role of the IAEA in strengthening global preparedness and response to nuclear and radiological emergencies

Abstract

Strengthening global readiness and response capabilities in the face of nuclear and radiological emergencies is fundamental to the enforcement of international standards of nuclear safety and security. The Incident and Emergency Centre (IEC) acts as the operational core of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), offering round-the-clock coordination for information sharing, verification, alert notifications, and coordination of international aid. Through organizations including the Response and Assistance Network (RANET), the International Radiation Monitoring Information System (IRMIS), the Unified System for Information Exchange in Incidents and Emergencies (USIE) the IAEA ensures that Member States can access reliable information and expert technical support in a timely manner. Taken together, these systems promote situational awareness, collaboration with national authorities, and increased global preparedness and response capacity for nuclear and radiological emergencies. This paper highlights the essential role of the IAEA in strengthening and improving coordinated international response capabilities to nuclear and radiological emergencies