Following the success of the IAEA workshop on Nuclear Safety and Security in an Insecure World, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is launching the IAEA Summer School on the Legal Framework for Nuclear Energy in Partnership with George Washington Law School (GW Law).
The quality of nuclear law education today will directly affect the quality of our nuclear legal framework in the future. By strengthening legal education now, we are investing in the infrastructure that will support nuclear energy for decades to come.
This two-week virtual Summer School, to be held from 16 to 25 June 2026, will provide students with an in-depth understanding of the international legal frameworks that govern the safe, secure and peaceful uses of nuclear energy. It forms part of the IAEA’s broader efforts to expand education in the field of nuclear law.
Strengthening Capacity through Education
Nuclear law underpins the peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology. It provides the legal foundation for ensuring safety, security, safeguards and liability during the full life cycle of nuclear energy. The Summer School brings together legal experts from the IAEA and George Washington University Law School (GW Law) to expand opportunities for this specialized training.
As more countries turn to nuclear energy to meet their energy security goals, the demand for sound legal frameworks will only grow. The expanding use of nuclear technology requires robust laws and skilled legal professionals who can navigate complex international legal instruments, ensure compliance with safety and security standards, and support the development of national legislation. Building this legal capacity is essential not only for enabling the safe, secure and peaceful uses of nuclear technology, but also for fostering confidence and cooperation on the international stage.
Programme Overview
The Summer School will be conducted online over two weeks, with daily sessions from 09:00 to 13:00 EDT (15:00–19:00 CEST). The first week will focus on the foundations of nuclear law. Students will be introduced to the international legal architecture, institutions, and core legal instruments. The second week will cover intersectional and emerging issues, such as small modular reactors (SMRs), fusion, space and maritime applications. Students will also learn the legal aspects of financing, permitting and regulating nuclear projects.
The programme will be delivered by IAEA staff, international experts and faculty from GW Law. Students will be expected to complete pre-course readings and participate actively in discussions and exercises.
Participation and Certification
The Summer School is open to graduate-level students of law from IAEA Member States. A limited number of places will also be available to students in related technical fields such as engineering and physics.?
Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a Certificate of Completion jointly issued by the IAEA and GW Law. Students wishing to obtain academic credit may do so directly through GW Law, subject to its requirements.
Applications
Detailed information on eligibility and application procedures will be made available on the IAEA and GW Law websites soon.