In the aftermath of the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the European Union started a large assistance programme in nuclear safety with the Commonwealth of Independent States. In 2007, the EU extended the geographical area for cooperation to the entire world. We now cooperate with the European Neighbourhood, Central Asia, the Middle East, South-East Asia and Africa.
The accidents in Chernobyl (1986) and Fukushima (2011) were reminders of the crucial importance of this policy that protects people and the environment against radiological hazards.
As a result of its lengthy experience in the field, the EU is well positioned to engage in international cooperation to ensure that nuclear activities are conducted safely, based on the transfer of EU standards.
The EU also supports joint projects with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and contributes towards the Environmental Remediation Account for Central Asia managed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The EU is the largest donor to this fund.
European Instrument for International Nuclear Safety Cooperation 2021-2027
The current EU external assistance programme, the European Instrument for International Nuclear Safety Cooperation (INSC) 2021-2027, supports the promotion of nuclear safety culture, the safe management of radioactive wastes and the implementation of effective and efficient nuclear safeguards.