Strengthening the Legal Framework for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Materials: Contemporary Challenges and Future Prospects
Abstract:
The transport of radioactive materials is a large-scale logistical operation, with over 20 million shipments annually , essential for medicine, research, and energy production. The safety and security of these operations rely on a set of international rules, of which the IAEA standards are the cornerstones . However, the rapidly evolving global landscape, marked by technological advances in the nuclear and transportation sectors, raises unprecedented challenges requiring regulatory adaptation. This article analyzes contemporary challenges, including incomplete legislative harmonization, the emergence of small modular reactors (SMRs), and cybersecurity threats, and assesses the relevance of current frameworks. The analysis demonstrates that cross-border regulatory inconsistencies increase logistical risks and operational costs. In conclusion, this article suggests that only targeted strengthening of legal frameworks, coupled with increased international collaboration on operational safety and training, will ensure the agility and resilience of the nuclear supply chain for decades to come.
