Uzbekistan Bolsters Nuclear Safety Framework by Acceding to Four Key International Conventions

A Landmark Step for Nuclear Governance

Uzbekistan has taken a significant stride in enhancing its nuclear safety and liability framework by formally joining four major international conventions throughout 2025. This comprehensive move, which includes the crucial Vienna Convention on Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage, demonstrates the nation's commitment to adhering to global standards for the peaceful use of nuclear energy and ensuring robust protection in the event of an incident. The accession documents were deposited with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), marking a pivotal moment for the Central Asian country's nuclear ambitions.

Key Conventions and Accession Dates

The four international treaties that Uzbekistan has joined are integral to a comprehensive nuclear safety regime:

• Convention on Early Notification of a Nuclear Accident (1986): Acceded on April 14, 2025, this convention ensures that states are promptly informed of nuclear accidents that could have transboundary radiological effects.
• Convention on Nuclear Safety (1994): Also acceded on April 14, 2025, this treaty aims to achieve and maintain a high level of nuclear safety worldwide through regular peer reviews and reporting.
• Convention on Assistance in the Case of a Nuclear Accident or Radiological Emergency (1986): Uzbekistan joined this convention on July 30, 2025, facilitating international cooperation and assistance during nuclear or radiological emergencies.
• Vienna Convention on Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (1963): The instrument of accession for this convention was officially deposited on November 8, 2025. This convention establishes a legal framework for liability in the event of nuclear accidents, defining the responsibilities of nuclear facility operators and ensuring compensation for damages.

The accession to the Vienna Convention followed its approval by both chambers of parliament between May and June 2025 and subsequent signing by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

Implications for Uzbekistan's Nuclear Program

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi congratulated Uzbekistan on these actions, noting the country's 'swift and firm commitment to strengthening nuclear safety and responsibility.' This move integrates Uzbekistan into the global nuclear legal regime, enhancing its systems for insurance and compensation and clarifying the government's role in regulating the industry. By joining these conventions, Uzbekistan adopts globally recognized legal standards for managing nuclear incidents, which will better protect its citizens and promote international cooperation in the sector.

The accessions are a crucial part of Uzbekistan's broader strategy to develop a modern legal framework for the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The country has ambitious plans, including the construction of a nuclear power plant and small modular reactors, and intends to implement more than 25 IAEA documents regulating safety standards and the handling of nuclear materials. Uzbekistan is now the second Central Asian country, after Kazakhstan, to be party to the Vienna Convention.