International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) ( UPSC Prelims)

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News Context

 ● International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) identifies Iran as non-compliant after two decades.  
  ● 19 out of 35 members of the IAEA Board voted to censure Iran.  
      ○ Iran failed to adhere to its nuclear non-proliferation obligations.

About the 2015 Nuclear Deal (JCPOA)

 ● Participants: The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was established between Iran and the P5+1 nations, which include France, Germany, Russia, the UK, the US, and China.  
        ○ In 2018, the US exited the agreement, and from 2019 onwards, Iran has progressively violated its terms.
  ● Purpose: The agreement aims to restrict Iran's nuclear program in exchange for relief from sanctions.  
  ● UN Endorsement: The deal is supported by UN Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015).  

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

 ● Genesis: Founded in 1957 as an independent international entity within the United Nations.  
  ● Motto: "Atoms for Peace and Development"  
  ● Members: Comprises 180 member states, including India.  
  ● North Korea: Became a member in 1974, exited in 1994.  
  ● General Conference: Annual gathering of all member states in Vienna.  
  ● Recognition: Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005 for advocating the peaceful use of nuclear energy and enhancing global safety.  
  ● Role of IAEA:  
        ○ Facilitates nuclear cooperation and peaceful applications.
        ○ Provides assistance to member states.
        ○ Establishes and promotes nuclear safety standards.
        ○ Ensures states adhere to their commitments.
  ● IAEA and NPT:  
        ○ The IAEA is not a signatory of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) but holds significant verification duties under the treaty.
        ○ Non-nuclear-weapon states under the NPT must establish comprehensive safeguards.
        ○ The NPT is a binding international agreement aimed at preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons and technology.
        ○ Enacted in 1970 and made permanent in 1995, with 191 countries as members.
    ● India, Israel, and Pakistan have not joined, while North Korea withdrew in 2003.