The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reached a significant milestone with the completion of its 100th International Physical Protection Advisory Service (IPPAS) mission. The IPPAS program, which has been in operation for over 25 years, aims to assist member states in strengthening their nuclear security regimes. During IPPAS missions, teams of international experts review the physical protection of nuclear and other radioactive material and associated facilities. The program follows a modular approach and currently offers five modules covering various aspects of nuclear security. The IPPAS missions have been conducted in 60 countries with the participation of over 250 international nuclear security experts. The IAEA plans to add a new module on nuclear material accounting and control for nuclear security purposes in the future. Three more IPPAS missions are scheduled to take place in the Netherlands, Switzerland, and the Republic of Congo by the end of 2023. The importance of effective physical protection and the use of good practices in nuclear security were also emphasized during the event. The IAEA maintains the IPPAS Good Practices Database, which currently includes 532 good practices that can be accessed by all countries.
Tue, 26 Sep 2023 12:38:28 GMT | International Atomic Energy Agency