VIBGYOR Model United Nations 14

International Atomic Energy Agency

Background Guide

Agenda 1: Future of Nuclear Energy: Promoting Peaceful Application

of
Nuclear Energy for Sustainable Global Development

Agenda 2: Nuclear Security: Ensuring Responsible Ownership and

Operation of Nuclear Power
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
______________________________________________________

Sr. No. Content Page No.

1 LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE BOARD 2
2 INTRODUCTION TO THE COMMITTEE 3
AGENDA 1: FUTURE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY: PROMOTING
PEACEFUL APPLICATION OF
3 4
NUCLEAR ENERGY FOR SUSTAINABLE GLOBAL
DEVELOPMENT
4 History of the Problem 4
5 Case Studies 5
6 Past Actions 6
7 QARMA (Questions A Resolution Must Answer) 7
8 Bibliography 8
AGENDA 2: NUCLEAR SECURITY: ENSURING RESPONSIBLE
9 OWNERSHIP AND 9
OPERATION OF NUCLEAR POWER
10 History of the Problem 9
11 Case Study 13
12 QARMA (Questions, Arguments, Resolutions, Motions, Amendments) 14
13 Bibliography 14

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 LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE BOARD
____________________________________________________

Dear Delegates,

On behalf of the Executive Board (EB) of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). We
extend our warmest greetings to you as you embark on your journey as a delegate in this esteemed
committee. We are delighted to have you as a representative and look forward to your contributions
in advancing the cause of human rights globally. The IAEA serves as a vital platform for
meaningful dialogue, cooperation, and action on nuclear energy across the world. As we convene
for the 68th session, we would like to provide you with some essential information to facilitate your
participation and engagement. The following pages intend to guide you through the nuances of the
agenda as well as the Committee.

The guide chronologically touches upon all the different aspects relevant to the agenda and will lead
to fruitful debate. It will provide you with a bird’s eye view of the gist of the issue. However, it has
to be noted that the background guide only contains certain basic information which may form the
basis for the debate and your research. The rest of the work as a delegate remains the same for you,
wherein you research about the agenda, your foreign policy and laws relating to the same. Please
take the initiative and research accordingly. Our goal for you in this committee is to have an
enriching experience by learning the art of diplomacy and at the same time see you solve real life
problems happening in this world. We are looking forward to seeing you in committee.

Regards,

Kahaan Doshi Ishaan Gangwani Neiv Malaviya

Chairperson Co-Chairperson Rapporteur

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 INTRODUCTION TO THE COMMITTEE
______________________________________________________

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) committee convenes to address global challenges
and opportunities concerning nuclear energy and technology, fostering collaboration among
delegates from diverse nations. Established in 1957, the IAEA emerged amidst the promises and
apprehensions accompanying the advancement of nuclear technology. As the world's premier hub
for nuclear cooperation, the agency focuses on promoting the safe, secure, and peaceful utilization
of nuclear technology, guided by the interests and needs of its Member States and the vision
outlined in its statute.

Operating within its broad scope, the IAEA engages in multifaceted activities aimed at advancing
nuclear safety, security, and cooperation. These activities encompass safeguards to prevent nuclear
proliferation, technical cooperation initiatives, safety measures, and security enhancements.
Through its safeguard’s programs, the agency works to verify compliance with nuclear non-
proliferation agreements, contributing to global efforts to curb the spread of nuclear weapons.
Additionally, the IAEA facilitates technical cooperation among Member States, fostering the
peaceful application of nuclear technology in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, and industry.

The IAEA's commitment to enhancing nuclear safety and security extends to its efforts in
strengthening emergency preparedness and response mechanisms worldwide. By providing
guidance, training, and support, the agency assists Member States in fortifying their nuclear
infrastructure against potential threats and hazards, ensuring the continued viability and
sustainability of nuclear energy for the benefit of humanity.

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AGENDA 1: FUTURE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY: PROMOTING PEACEFUL APPLICATION
OF NUCLEAR ENERGY FOR SUSTAINABLE GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT
______________________________________________________

History of the Problem

The history of nuclear energy is intertwined with complex geopolitical dynamics, scientific
breakthroughs, and global security concerns. The discovery of nuclear fission in the 20th century
ushered in a new era of possibilities, but also brought forth grave apprehensions about its potential
misuse. The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II epitomized the
devastating consequences of nuclear weapons, prompting international efforts to prevent their
proliferation.

The Cold War rivalry between nuclear-armed superpowers further underscored the urgent need for
effective nuclear governance mechanisms to mitigate the risk of catastrophic conflict. Against this
backdrop, the establishment of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 1957 marked a
pivotal moment in global efforts to harness the benefits of nuclear energy while ensuring its
peaceful use and preventing its proliferation for military purposes.

By the late 20th century, nuclear power had become a vital part of global energy supply, with
varying degrees of dependence among nations. However, the dangers of nuclear energy were
brought to light with accidents like Chernobyl and the Three Mile Island reactor meltdown. These
incidents not only cast doubt on the safety of nuclear power but also led to a re-evaluation of
nuclear policies and a push for more stringent safety regulations.

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 Case Studies

France:

France stands as a prime example of the successful and sustainable application of nuclear energy in
electricity generation. With a long-standing commitment to nuclear power, France has developed
one of the most extensive and reliable nuclear energy programs globally. As of 2021, nuclear power
accounts for approximately 70% of the country's electricity generation, making France one of the
largest producers of nuclear energy in the world.

The French nuclear energy program traces its roots back to the oil crises of the 1970s, which
prompted the government to prioritize energy independence and security. In response, France
embarked on an ambitious nuclear power expansion initiative, investing heavily in the construction
of nuclear power plants across the country. By the late 1980s, France had achieved near-complete
energy self-sufficiency, significantly reducing its reliance on imported fossil fuels and mitigating
the impact of volatile oil prices on its economy.

The success of France's nuclear energy program can be attributed to several factors, including
rigorous safety standards, advanced reactor designs, and a robust regulatory framework. The
country's fleet of nuclear reactors, predominantly based on pressurized water reactor (PWR)
technology, has demonstrated high levels of reliability and safety throughout decades of operation.
Furthermore, France has implemented comprehensive waste management and decommissioning
strategies, ensuring the responsible handling of nuclear materials, and minimizing environmental
impacts.

In addition to its contributions to energy security and decarbonization, France's nuclear energy
program has also played a significant role in driving economic growth and innovation. The sector
supports thousands of jobs in manufacturing, construction, and engineering, while fostering
research and development in nuclear science and technology. Moreover, France's expertise in
nuclear engineering and reactor design has positioned the country as a global leader in the export of

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nuclear technology, with French companies involved in the construction of nuclear power plants
worldwide.

Fukushima Daiichi:

The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster serves as a critical case study highlighting the importance
of nuclear safety, regulatory oversight, and international cooperation in mitigating the risks
associated with nuclear energy. The Fukushima accident exposed systemic vulnerabilities in nuclear
infrastructure, emergency preparedness, and risk assessment, underscoring the need for enhanced
safeguards and measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Firstly, the Fukushima disaster underscores the significance of robust safety standards and
regulatory frameworks for nuclear power plants. The IAEA plays a central role in establishing and
promoting international safety standards, such as the Convention on Nuclear Safety and the Safety
Standards Series, to ensure that Member States adhere to rigorous safety protocols and best
practices. The Fukushima accident prompted a re-evaluation of existing safety guidelines, leading
to revisions and updates to address emerging threats and vulnerabilities.

Secondly, the Fukushima case study highlights the importance of international collaboration and
information sharing in nuclear emergency preparedness and response. In the aftermath of the
accident, the IAEA facilitated coordination among Member States, providing technical assistance,
expertise, and guidance to support Japan's efforts to stabilize the situation and mitigate the
consequences of the disaster. The establishment of the International Nuclear and Radiological Event
Scale (INES) by the IAEA also facilitated the international dissemination of information about the
severity of nuclear incidents, enabling timely and informed decision-making by governments and
stakeholders.

Furthermore, the Fukushima disaster underscored the imperative for continuous learning,
improvement, and transparency in the nuclear industry. The IAEA's role in conducting post-
accident assessments, sharing lessons learned, and disseminating best practices is crucial in
fostering a culture of safety and accountability among Member States. By facilitating peer reviews,
technical exchanges, and capacity-building initiatives, the IAEA contributes to strengthening global

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nuclear safety and security, reducing the likelihood of future accidents, and building resilience
against nuclear risks.

QARMA (Questions A Resolution Must Answer)

• Is Nuclear Energy Viable as a Primary Energy Source for Nations in the Future?
• How will problems arising from nuclear energy production be countered?
• How will the mechanisms for long-term planning, governance, and oversight of nuclear
energy development be established. to ensure sustainability, adaptability, and resilience in
the face of evolving technological, environmental, and geopolitical challenges?
• How will equitable access to nuclear technology and its benefits be provided to developing
countries, while ensuring responsible and sustainable deployment that respects national
sovereignty and addresses socio-economic disparities?
• How will the environmental impact of nuclear energy be mitigated?

Bibliography
https://www-pub.iaea.org/MTCD/publications/PDF/Pub1032_web.pdf https://www
.iaea.org/about/mission https://www.un.org/en/conf/npt/2015/pdf/IAEA%20factsheet.pdf
https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/what-iran-nuclear-deal
https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/news/iran-is-implementing-nuclear-related-jcpoa-
commitmentsdirector-general-amano-tells-iaea-board https://www.iaea.org/topics/chornobyl
https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/news/30-years-after-chernobyl-iaea-continues-to-support-
globalefforts-to-help-affected-regions
https://www.iaea.org/topics/nuclear-safety-action-plan

______________________________________________________

History of the Problem

The history of nuclear security is rooted in the recognition of the dual nature of nuclear technology,
with its potential for both peaceful applications and catastrophic misuse. The dawn of the nuclear
age in the mid-20th century brought unprecedented scientific advancements alongside heightened
global security concerns. The devastating impacts of atomic bombings during World War II spurred
international efforts to prevent the further proliferation of nuclear weapons and ensure the
responsible stewardship of nuclear materials and facilities.
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The Cold War era witnessed a tense arms race between nuclear-armed superpowers, The United
States and the Soviet Union, leading to heightened fears of nuclear conflict and the catastrophic
consequences of nuclear warfare. The Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 epitomized the perilous
brinkmanship and nuclear brinkmanship that characterized the era, underscoring the urgent need for
effective mechanisms to prevent nuclear proliferation and ensure strategic stability.

In the post-Cold War era, the focus of nuclear security shifted towards the prevention of nuclear
terrorism and the illicit trafficking of nuclear materials. The collapse of the Soviet Union resulted in
the proliferation of nuclear expertise, materials, and technologies, heightening concerns about the
vulnerability of nuclear facilities and the potential for nuclear terrorism. The discovery of
clandestine nuclear weapons programs in countries such as Iraq, Libya, and North Korea further
underscored the challenges of detecting and deterring nuclear proliferation.

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 Past Actions
Establishment and Early Mandate: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was
established in 1957, born from the vision of U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower's "Atoms for
Peace" program. Its foundational goal was to harness nuclear energy for peaceful purposes while
preventing its military use, especially nuclear weapons proliferation. This dual mandate represented
a response to the escalating nuclear arms race and the recognition of the immense potential of
nuclear energy. The IAEA's formation signalled a new era in international nuclear cooperation and
governance, setting a precedent for balancing the promotion of peaceful nuclear applications with
stringent non-proliferation measures.

Safety Standards and Inspections: A critical element of the IAEA’s role has been the development
and implementation of comprehensive safety standards. These standards provide an international
benchmark for the safe operation of nuclear installations, encompassing aspects such as reactor
safety, radiation protection, and the secure handling and transport of nuclear material. The IAEA's
Safeguards System, a key milestone established to support these standards, involves rigorous
inspections and monitoring to ensure that member states comply with their non-proliferation
commitments. This system serves as a linchpin in the global effort to prevent the diversion of
nuclear material for nonpeaceful uses, thereby upholding the principles of nuclear security and
safety.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been a crucial entity in the implementation
and enforcement of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) since its inception. The IAEA’s safeguards
system is designed to verify that signatory states adhere to their commitments not to develop
nuclear weapons. In the context of Iran, the IAEA played a vital role in monitoring the country's
nuclear program, leading to the establishment of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)
in 2015. This agreement marked a significant milestone in diplomatic efforts to limit Iran's nuclear
capabilities in exchange for lifting economic sanctions.

In the case of North Korea, the IAEA's role has been more complex due to the country's withdrawal
from the NPT in 2003 and its subsequent development of nuclear weapons. The IAEA has faced
challenges in monitoring and verifying North Korea’s nuclear activities, highlighting the difficulties
in enforcing non-proliferation measures in non-compliant states.

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In response to evolving global nuclear security challenges, the IAEA has implemented several
initiatives and programs. The Nuclear Security Plan, formulated by the IAEA, aims to safeguard
against nuclear terrorism, prevent the trafficking of radioactive materials, and ensure the security of
nuclear facilities. An essential aspect of this plan is the Integrated Nuclear Security Support Plan
(INSSP), tailored to individual member states' needs, providing a framework for enhancing nuclear
security capabilities.

Bilateral and multilateral cooperation among states have also been instrumental in addressing
nuclear security challenges. The Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials
of Mass Destruction, launched in 2002, fosters collaborative efforts among partner countries to
secure and eliminate vulnerable nuclear materials, enhance border security, and strengthen nuclear
infrastructure and capacity. Moreover, initiatives such as the Nuclear Security Summits, convened
between 2010 and 2016, provided a platform for world leaders to discuss and coordinate efforts to
combat nuclear terrorism and enhance nuclear security globally.

Event Wise Actions:

1. Chernobyl Disaster (1986): Following the catastrophic nuclear accident at Chernobyl, the
IAEA was heavily involved in assessing the causes, managing the emergency response, and
guiding the international community in the aftermath. The disaster led to significant changes
in nuclear safety standards globally and highlighted the necessity for stringent safety
measures in nuclear power plants.

2. Iran's Nuclear Program Inspections: The IAEA has played a pivotal role in inspecting
Iran's nuclear facilities, ensuring compliance with the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and
facilitating the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). This
involved rigorous inspections and reporting to verify that Iran's nuclear program was solely
for peaceful purposes.

3. North Korea's Nuclear Program: The IAEA has been involved in monitoring and
inspecting.
North Korea's nuclear activities. Despite challenges due to North Korea's withdrawal from
the NPT and development of nuclear weapons, the IAEA's efforts have been central to the
international community's understanding of the situation in the region.
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4. Syria's Covert Nuclear Reactor (2007): The IAEA investigated the construction of a
covert nuclear reactor in Syria, which was destroyed in an Israeli air strike. The case
highlighted the need for enhanced sharing of information and less politicized reporting in
IAEA investigations.
It also demonstrated the agency's role in preventing clandestine nuclear activities.

5. South Africa's Nuclear Disarmament (1990s): The IAEA verified the dismantlement of
South Africa's nuclear weapons program, marking a significant achievement in nuclear non-
proliferation. South Africa's decision to become a non-nuclear weapon state under the NPT
and the subsequent verification by the IAEA served as a positive example.

6. Iraq's Nuclear Inspections (1990s): Following the Gulf War, the IAEA conducted
extensive inspections in Iraq to ensure the dismantlement of its nuclear weapons program.
These inspections were pivotal in verifying that Iraq had ceased its nuclear weapons
development following its defeat in the war. The IAEA's role in Iraq set a precedent for
intrusive inspection and verification protocols in countries suspected of clandestine nuclear
activities.

7. Libya's Nuclear Disarmament (2003): Libya's decision to dismantle its nuclear weapons
program in 2003 was a significant non-proliferation success story, with the IAEA playing a
key role in verifying the dismantlement process. The agency's inspections and oversight
ensured the complete elimination of Libya's nuclear weapons capabilities, contributing to
regional and global security.

8. Brazil's Nuclear Program and Safeguards (Ongoing): Brazil, with its advanced nuclear
program, has been under the IAEA's safeguards to ensure that its nuclear materials are not
diverted to weapons purposes. The IAEA's inspections and oversight have been crucial in
verifying the peaceful nature of Brazil's nuclear activities, especially given the country's
advanced uranium enrichment capabilities.

9. Ukraine's Nuclear Security (Post-1991): Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the
IAEA has been actively involved in ensuring the security of nuclear materials in Ukraine.
This includes safeguarding nuclear facilities, securing radioactive sources, and assisting

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 Ukraine in meeting its non-proliferation commitments. The IAEA's role has been crucial in
preventing the proliferation of nuclear materials from a region with a complex political and
security landscape of nuclear disarmament.

Case Study
The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), also known as the Iran Nuclear Deal, represents
a landmark diplomatic agreement aimed at addressing proliferation risks and enhancing nuclear
security within the framework of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Negotiated between
Iran and the P5+1 countries (United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia, China, plus Germany)
and endorsed by the United Nations Security Council in 2015, the JCPOA seeks to verifiably limit
Iran's nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief and normalized economic relations.

From a nuclear security perspective, the JCPOA aims to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear
weapons capability while enhancing transparency, monitoring, and verification mechanisms to
ensure compliance with non-proliferation commitments. Under the agreement, Iran agreed to
significantly reduce its uranium enrichment capacity, dismantle key nuclear facilities, and submit to
rigorous inspections and monitoring by the IAEA to verify compliance with its nuclear obligations.

The JCPOA represents a multilateral diplomatic achievement in advancing nuclear security

objectives by addressing proliferation risks, promoting transparency, and strengthening the non-
proliferation regime established under the NPT. By providing a verifiable framework for
monitoring and restricting Iran's nuclear activities, the agreement enhances confidence in the
peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program and reduces the risk of nuclear proliferation and conflict
in the region.

However, the JCPOA also faces challenges and uncertainties, including concerns about Iran's
compliance with its nuclear obligations, the potential for destabilizing regional dynamics, and the
risk of nuclear proliferation if the agreement collapses. The decision by the United States to
withdraw from the JCPOA in 2018 and reimpose sanctions on Iran has strained the agreement and
undermined its effectiveness, raising questions about the future of nuclear security in the region and
the broader implications for the non-proliferation regime.

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 QARMA (Questions A Resolution Must Answer)

• How to strengthen the non-proliferation regime established under the NPT and prevent the
spread of nuclear weapons and materials to non-state actors and rogue states?
• How to support efforts to enhance nuclear security infrastructure, capacity-building, and
technical cooperation among Member States, particularly in regions with limited resources
and vulnerabilities to nuclear terrorism and proliferation?
• How to ensure international cooperation and coordination to address proliferation risks and
enhance nuclear security globally, particularly in regions of heightened tension and conflict?

Bibliography

https://www.iaea.org/services/key-programmes/operation-and-maintenance-of-nuclear-power-plant

https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/news/nuclear-safety-security-and-safeguards-in-ukraine

https://www.world-nuclear.org/information-library/safety-and-security/security-of-nuclear-facilities-
and-material.aspx

https://www.iaea.org/topics/nuclear-power-and-climate-
changehttps://inis.iaea.org/collection/NCLCollectionStore/_Public/43/013/43013984.pdf

https://ansn.iaea.org/Common/topics/topicDetails.aspx?ID=119743

Further Reading
Committee History of the International Atomic Energy Agency
https://www.iaea.org/about/overview/history
https://www.iaea.org/about/statute
https://www.iaea.org/sites/default/files/gc/gc63-5.pdf

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I. Peaceful Usage of Nuclear Energy in Developing Countries
https://news.un.org/en/story/2019/10/1048732
https://www.amacad.org/publication/nuclear-energy-developing-countries
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1364032111005491
https://www.iaea.org/topics/energy https://www.amacad.org/publication/nuclear-
energy-developing-countries
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1364032111005491
https://unfccc.int/kyoto_protocol
https://www.un.org/ga/search/view_doc.asp?symbol=A/RES/70/1&Lang=E
https://undocs.org/en/A/RES/72/5
https://www.un.org/press/en/2017/ga11972.doc.htm http://world-nuclear-
news.org/Articles/UN-report-shows-increased-need-for-nuclear
https://www.iaea.org/atoms4climate

III. Strengthening the Treaty of the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons

https://www.un.org/disarmament/wmd/nuclear/sg5point/
https://www.securitycouncilreport.org/atf/cf/%7B65BFCF9B-6D27-4E9C-
8CD3CF6E4FF96FF9%7D/Disarm%20ARES1665.pdf
http://legal.un.org/avl/ha/tnpt/tnpt.html
https://www.armscontrol.org/print/6938
http://theconversation.com/what-is-the-nuclear-non-proliferation-treaty-heres-why-its-still-
important-
119857
https://www.un.org/disarmament/wmd/nuclear/npt/ https://www.brookings.edu/research/non-
proliferation-challenges-facing-the-trump-administration/ https://thebulletin.org/2019/10/no-it-is-
not-time-to-ditch-the-npt/ https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/september-2019/as-the-
nuclear-arms-race-heats-up-canadasgot-a-critical-role-to-play/ https://tutorials.nti.org/npt-
tutorial/current-issues-and-challenges/ http://lcnp.org/pubs/40yearsonfinal.pdf
https://www.un.org/disarmament/wmd/nuclear/npt/text/

P.S. Do not come to committee with Oppenheimer as your base research material. Nolan is a
filmmaker, not a diplomat.

*****

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