Nuclear Energy Agency Online Bulletin

October 2003

Legal affairs news


International School of Nuclear Law (ISNL)

The third session of the International School of Nuclear Law (ISNL), a programme jointly organised by the NEA and the University of Montpellier 1, took place in Montpellier, France on 25 August-5 September 2003. 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 to both law students pursuing their studies at masters or doctoral level who are interested in specialising in this field and to professionals already active in the nuclear sector. The 2003 session brought together 53 participants from 30 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 and nuclear security;
  • 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. A major development for the 2003 session was the establishment (under the authority of the University of Montpellier 1) of a Diploma of International Nuclear Law. Some 30 participants from the 2003 session have applied for this diploma and will shortly sit the written examinations. Diploma candidates are also required to submit a dissertation.

A meeting of the supervisory board of the school was held in Montpellier on 23 August 2003. During this meeting, the members of the board discussed and approved the programme and pedagogical orientations of the school. The board also approved the possible establishment of links with other institutions such as the United Nations University or the recently created World Nuclear University.

The 2004 session of the school is due to take place in Montpellier on 23 August-3 September 2004. Further information on the ISNL and application forms for the 2004 session will soon be available on the NEA website (www.oecd-nea.org/law/isnl/index.html) or by contacting Mr. Patrick Reyners, Head, NEA Legal Affairs (by e-mail: Patrick.Reyners@oecd.org or phone +33 1 45 24 10 31). Completed application forms must be received by 31 March 2004 at the latest.

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