[MUNUC 35] International Atomic Energy Agency IAEA

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an independent organization composed of 173 member states dedicated to international cooperation on matters of nuclear energy and weapons. Despite answering to the United Nations Security Council and General Assembly, the IAEA is an autonomous organization chartered by an independent international statute. Guided by a mission to expand the peaceful and safe use of nuclear technology, the IAEA provides a platform for nearly every member state of the U.N. to voice their concerns regarding nuclear technology.

Topic A: Addressing the Consequences of Nuclear Testing
Since breakthroughs in the 1930s, hundreds of nuclear tests have been carried out around the world, bringing grave consequences to both the communities and ecologies around nuclear test sites. Historical nuclear testing by the P5 nations continues to have implications today for post-colonial territories such as the Marshall Islands and French Polynesia. Through examining this topic, delegates will be asked to address demands for compensation and face the environmental injustices brought about by testing. Furthermore, delegates will be expected to attempt future testing by considering tensions and shortcomings of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), which is yet to be ratified by several major nuclear powers including the U.S.

Topic B: Improving the Safety of Nuclear Workers
As Nuclear Power has become more prominent as an energy source throughout much of today’s world, the risks of working at such plants have become increasingly prominent. While plants are considered one of the safest and most secure facilities, it is not just the plant operators that are at risk, but also the miners who extract radioactive starting materials. Through this topic, delegates will be asked to not only demonstrate an understanding of the risks involved with working directly in the nuclear industry but also the implications that increased worker safety has for the general community surrounding them. In doing so, delegates will also be able to learn about the studies and additional safety measures to protect the health of the miners and plant operators such as the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s study on underground miners. Engaging with this study and others can inform additional safety measures for the health of those who have provided the necessary resources for the working of the nuclear industry, further protecting workers and their loved ones.

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