International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
Structure and Functions
The IAEA is the United Nations' principal agency for nuclear safeguards, safety, and peaceful applications of nuclear technology. Established by the IAEA Statute in 1957, it is often described as the world's "nuclear watchdog."
- Founded: 1957; Headquarters: Vienna, Austria
- Member states: 178 (as of 2025)
- The IAEA operates under the aegis of the UN but reports to both the UN General Assembly and the Security Council.
- Three main bodies: General Conference (all member states, annual), Board of Governors (35 members, meets 5 times/year), and Secretariat (headed by the Director General).
- Board composition: 13 members designated by the outgoing Board (most advanced in nuclear technology) + 22 elected by the General Conference for 2-year terms.
- India is a member state since 1957 (founding year) and serves on the Board for 2025-2026.
- Core functions: Nuclear safeguards verification (inspections under NPT Additional Protocol), safety standards, technical assistance to developing countries, and promoting peaceful nuclear applications.
- Current Director General: Rafael Mariano Grossi (Argentina), appointed 2019.
● Tracked since March 02, 2026 · last seen June 24, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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