Topics Covered: Important International institutions, agencies and fora, their structure, mandate.
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA):
Context:
North Korea has accused IAEA of being a puppet of hostile countries after a new report said North Korea’s nuclear weapons stockpile was breaking international law.
Observations made by North Korea:
- The IAEA is no more than a political tool of the Western countries.
- It was “a marionette dancing to the tune of the hostile forces” against North Korea.
What’s the issue?
Pyongyang has gradually built an atomic stockpile after abandoning the Non-Proliferation Treaty in 2003, and has tested several nuclear bombs in the years since.
- Besides, IAEA’s inspectors have not been allowed into the country for more than a decade.
- So, IAEA had recently observed that Pyongyang’s weapons programme was “deeply regrettable” and the country’s nuclear activities “remain a cause for serious concern”.
Background:
North Korea is widely believed to have continued to develop its arsenal — which it says it needs to protect itself from a US invasion — throughout the discussions.
About IAEA:
Set up as the world’s “Atoms for Peace” organization in 1957 within the United Nations family.
Reports to both the United Nations General Assembly and Security Council.
Headquarters in Vienna, Austria.
Functions:
- Works with its Member States and multiple partners worldwide to promote the safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear technologies.
- Seeks to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and to inhibit its use for any military purpose, including nuclear weapons.
Board of Governors:
22 member states (must represent a stipulated geographic diversity) — elected by the General Conference (11 members every year) – 2 year term.
- At least 10 member states — nominated by the outgoing Board.
- Board members each receive one vote.
Functions:
- Recommendations to the General Conference on IAEA activities and budget.
- Responsible for publishing IAEA standards.
- Responsible for making most of the policy of the IAEA.
- Appoints the Director General subject to General Conference approval.
Programs:
- Program of Action for Cancer Therapy (PACT).
- Human Health Program.
- Water Availability Enhancement Project.
- International Project on Innovative Nuclear Reactors and Fuel Cycles, 2000.
InstaLinks:
Prelims Link:
- What is IAEA? Relation with the UN.
- Members of IAEA.
- Programs of IAEA.
- Board of Governors- composition, voting and functions.
- What is Uranium Enrichment?
Sources: the Hindu.
