World Nuclear Association calls for internationally aligned regulation at IAEA ministerial conference

World Nuclear Association Director General Dr Sama Bilbao y León participated in the International Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Power in the Republic of Korea on 28 October, bringing the nuclear industry’s perspective to high-level discussions on the safe and effective expansion of nuclear energy. 

The conference brings together ministers, policymakers and international experts to explore how nuclear power can meet growing energy demand, strengthen energy security and support climate goals and sustainable development. Discussions cover the foundations for successful nuclear programmes, regulatory effectiveness, advanced technologies, workforce development and supply chains, and emerging applications of nuclear power. 

Speaking on Panel Session 2: Effective Regulation: Safety, Security, Non-Proliferation, and Harmonization, Bilbao y León called for regulatory frameworks that maintain uncompromising standards of safety and security while enabling more predictable and efficient nuclear deployment. 

Bilbao y León highlighted four priorities for industry: proportionate and timely regulatory processes; greater reliance on assessments by trusted regulators to avoid unnecessary duplication; harmonisation of codes, standards and supply-chain requirements; and investment in the regulatory expertise needed to support nuclear expansion and new technologies. 

Bilbao y León emphasised that industry is not seeking lower safety standards, but consistent and effective regulation that supports delivery at the pace and scale required. International cooperation, including through the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Nuclear Harmonization and Standardization Initiative and World Nuclear Association’s CORDEL Working Group, can help enable the wider deployment of standardised reactor designs while preserving national regulatory independence. 

World Nuclear Association's message to policymakers was clear: effective regulation must deliver both safety and efficiency. Strong, independent and internationally aligned regulatory frameworks are essential to building public confidence, reducing unnecessary delays and enabling nuclear energy to contribute to energy security and sustainable development worldwide.