Enhancing Nuclear Law Knowledge in Azerbaijan

The IAEA conducted a legislative assistance mission to Azerbaijan from 12 to 14 November, in cooperation with the State Agency for Regulation of Nuclear and Radiological Activity. The mission aimed to raise awareness among decision-makers on the importance of adhering to the relevant international legal instruments and on the elements of comprehensive national nuclear legislation. It also included a workshop for stakeholders to strengthen knowledge of the legal and regulatory framework. 

The timing was significant as Azerbaijan is considering embarking on a nuclear power programme. 

Over two days, experts from the IAEA Office of Legal Affairs and the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security, Division of Nuclear Installation Safety discussed international legal frameworks for nuclear safety, security, safeguards and civil liability for nuclear damage. They also addressed the development of national nuclear legislation, the establishment of legal and regulatory infrastructure for a nuclear power programme, and the functions and duties of a nuclear regulatory body, with respect to a nuclear power project.  More than 50 representatives from over 15 ministries, offices and agencies attended the event. 

“The IAEA’s expert mission on legislative assistance offered comprehensive and constructive insight into the integration of IAEA recommendations on nuclear and radiation safety and security within national legislation,” said Murad Pashayev, Head of the State Agency for Regulation of Nuclear and Radiological Activity. “The mission underscored the importance of adhering to international instruments to ensure a coherent, robust, and internationally aligned regulatory framework.”

On the last day, the IAEA team held bilateral meetings with senior officials from the Cabinet of Ministers, the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, the Ministry of Justice, and the Ministry of Emergency Situations. Discussions focused on the benefits of joining and implementing international legal instruments and the legislative and technical assistance available from the IAEA. 

The mission was carried out under the IAEA Legislative Assistance Programme within the framework of an interregional technical cooperation project.