Founded in 1957, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was established as the world’s primary organization for promoting peaceful nuclear energy use and ensuring nuclear safety. Based in Vienna, Austria, the IAEA’s role is to foster the safe and secure use of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, including in energy, medicine, and industry. It also works to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons through its safeguards system, which monitors nuclear activities to ensure compliance with international treaties such as the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Its role has grown over time, the IAEA provides technical assistance and trains professionals in member states on nuclear safety and technology. Its role has grown over time, particularly with concerns regarding the development of nuclear weapons by states such as Iran and North Korea. The IAEA also promotes international cooperation in the research and development of nuclear energy solutions, particularly to address global challenges such as climate change.