Speaker
Description
Nuclear safeguards and the Additional Protocol play a critical role in the use of small modular reactors (SMRs) in a country like Iraq, essentially acting as tools of assurance and transparency, not only to the international community but also to the domestic audience.
- Non-Proliferation Assurance: Safeguards are key to ensuring that SMRs aren't misused for nefarious purposes, by providing mechanisms for monitoring and inspection, safeguards help prevent the diversion of nuclear material from peaceful uses, upholding the principles of the Non-Proliferation Treaty which Iraq is a party to.
- Building International Trust: The successful and verifiable implementation of safeguards builds trust with the international community by demonstrating Iraq's commitment to use nuclear technology responsibly.
- Enhancing Safety and Security: While their primary goal is non-proliferation, safeguards can indirectly support nuclear safety and security. For instance, the material accountancy measures necessary for safeguards can aid in the early detection of any irregularities, whether accidental (e.g., leaks) or deliberate (e.g., sabotage).
- Establishing the Additional Protocol: Beyond the original safeguards under the NPT, the Additional Protocol provides for more extensive IAEA access to information and sites. For a country like Iraq deploying SMRs, its implementation adds an extra layer of trust and confidence, which could be particularly important given the dispersed and potentially remote nature of SMRs.
- Regulatory Confidence: For Iraq's own nuclear regulatory authority and for the general public, knowing safeguards are actively implemented and adhered to, can provide confidence that the nuclear program is being managed responsibly and securely, contributing to acceptance of the technology.
| Country OR International Organization | Iraq |
|---|---|
| Email address | surar9189@gmail.com |
| Confirm that the work is original and has not been published anywhere else | YES |
