Nuclear Energy Agency Online Bulletin

October 2002

Legal affairs news


International School of Nuclear Law (ISNL)

The second session of the International School of Nuclear Law (ISNL), a programme jointly organised by the NEA and the University of Montpellier 1, took place on 26 August - 7 September 2002 in Montpellier. The International Nuclear Law Association, the European Commission and the International Atomic Energy Agency also extended their patronage or support to the organisation of this session.

The International School of Nuclear Law aims to provide a high-quality programme on all aspects of the law governing the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Classes cater for both law students pursuing their studies at masters or doctoral level who are interested in specialising in this field and professionals already active in the nuclear sector. The 2002 session brought together 57 participants from 35 countries. Classes were held in English and took place over a two-week period, combining lectures in the morning with practical exercises and case studies in the afternoon. Subjects covered included:

  • the history and origins of nuclear law;
  • radiation protection, nuclear safety and accident prevention;
  • emergency preparedness, spent fuel and radioactive waste management;
  • the transport of nuclear materials and fuel;
  • physical protection, non-proliferation;
  • liability and compensation for nuclear damage (including insurance issues);
  • international trade of nuclear materials and equipment.

Students complemented their theoretical studies by visiting the nuclear installations at Marcoule.

Certificates were awarded to participants who successfully completed the course. Students were also encouraged to submit a dissertation on one of the topics explored during the school's sessions, with a view to selecting the most worthy contributions for publication in the NEA Nuclear Law Bulletin or other periodicals. Internships in the nuclear sector are also being organised for the most qualified participants.

During this second session of the ISNL, a co-operative agreement was signed by Professor Alain Uziel, President of the University of Montpellier 1 and Mrs. Carol Kessler, Deputy Director-General of the NEA. This agreement establishes an official framework for the partnership already established between the NEA and the university in the field of education and research in relation to nuclear energy law. It will also serve as a basis to pursue other forms of joint action in this field.

A meeting of the supervisory board of the school was held in Montpellier on 24 August 2002. During this meeting, the members of the board discussed and approved the programme and pedagogical orientations of the school. The possible award of a University of Montpellier 1 diploma to future ISNL participants and the granting of university credits for participation in this course by other universities is currently being explored.

Finally, at the behest of several past pupils, the organisers of the ISNL hope to establish an ISNL alumni association.

The 2003 session of the ISNL is due to take place in Montpellier on 25 August - 5 September 2003. Further information about the ISNL and application forms for its 2003 session will soon be available on this website or by contacting Mr. Patrick Reyners, Head, NEA Legal Affairs (by email: Patrick.Reyners@oecd.org or phone +33 1 45 24 10 31). Application forms must be received by 31 March 2003 at the latest.

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