International Convention on Nuclear Safety: a Legal Milestone

The Convention on Nuclear Safety was signed by 84 nations in June, 1994. This international legal instrument addresses the safety of nuclear power plants in a preventive and continuous way, making it similar to international agreements on air or maritime safety. Although the international community agrees to the principles of the convention, it is the responsibility of member states to assure nuclear safety. This chronological review of the development of the convention addresses the identification of legal issues and appropriate frameworks. The convention requires that signators report on the implementation of the convention at periodic meetings.