Pillars of Nuclear Cooperation
Promoting Science & Technology
The IAEA works to mobilize peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology for critical needs in developing countries
The IAEA is the world's focal point for scientific and technical cooperation in nuclear fields. The work contributes to fighting poverty, sickness, and pollution of the earth's environment, and to other global "Millennium Goals" for a safer and better future.
The main areas of activities are:
- Technical Cooperation. The IAEA supports cooperative projects achieving tangible social and economic benefits for people in developing countries. Many channels and partnerships provide expert services, specialized equipment, training, and other types of support.
- Research & Development. Jointly with institutes and laboratories worldwide, the IAEA supports research and development on critical problems facing developing countries. Work targets food, health, water, and environmental areas where nuclear and radiation technologies can make a difference.
- Energy & Electricity. The IAEA helps countries assess and plan their energy needs, including nuclear generation of electricity. Major emphasis is placed on the role of "innovative" and advanced technologies vital to meeting the world's rising energy needs.
Where they hold comparative advantages, nuclear science and technology have become preferred solutions - and sometimes the only solutions - to many problems hindering development in poorer countries. They have made significant contributions valued at more than US $400 million to the world's major goals of sustainable development.
Three IAEA Departments lead programmes in fields of nuclear science and technology: Department of Technical Cooperation; Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications; and Department of Nuclear Energy.