The agreement has helped countries develop stronger approaches to managing spent fuel and radioactive waste while protecting people and the environment from potential long-term risks.

Established as the first legally binding international framework dedicated to these issues, the Joint Convention has provided governments with a structured process for reviewing and improving their radioactive waste management practices.

Through regular reporting, peer assessment, and knowledge sharing, it has created a global platform for cooperation on some of the nuclear sector’s most complex challenges.

The result has been wider adoption of robust regulatory frameworks, greater transparency in national programmes, and stronger collaboration between participating countries.

With 93 Contracting Parties now involved, the Convention has become a key mechanism for promoting high standards of radioactive waste management and spent fuel safety globally.

A framework for long-term nuclear safety

Every country that uses nuclear technology, whether for energy production, medicine, research, or industry, must address the challenge of managing radioactive waste safely over the long term.

The Joint Convention was created to help governments meet this responsibility through a shared commitment to continuous improvement and international accountability.

Unlike many international agreements, the Convention relies heavily on peer review. Participating countries submit detailed national reports outlining their policies, facilities, regulatory frameworks, and progress.

These reports are then scrutinised during Review Meetings, where countries openly discuss achievements, challenges, and areas requiring further attention.

This process encourages the exchange of expertise and lessons learned while helping identify gaps that may require additional action. Over time, it has fostered a culture of transparency and trust among participating nations.

Growing participation reflects global commitment

Membership in the Convention has steadily expanded since its launch, highlighting the increasing recognition that radioactive waste management is a shared international responsibility.

The growth to 93 Contracting Parties reflects the understanding that nuclear safety challenges often extend beyond national borders. Issues such as waste transportation, long-term storage, and disposal strategies can have regional and international implications, underscoring the need for cooperation.

The Convention provides a forum for discussing these concerns collectively, enabling countries to benefit from shared experiences and proven approaches while strengthening overall safety performance.

Adapting to a changing nuclear landscape

The nuclear sector today looks very different from when the Convention first came into force in 2001. Many nations are exploring nuclear power as part of their efforts to reduce carbon emissions and strengthen energy security.

At the same time, advanced reactor technologies, innovative fuel cycles, and expanding applications of radiation-based technologies are creating new opportunities.

These developments also introduce new radioactive waste streams and safety considerations that require careful planning.

To address these changes, the Joint Convention has increasingly emphasised preparedness, long-term strategy, and effective regulatory oversight.

The framework supports countries in anticipating future waste management requirements while ensuring that safety standards evolve alongside technological advances.

Supporting emerging nuclear programmes

A significant aspect of the Convention’s work has been helping countries with smaller or developing nuclear programmes establish strong foundations from the outset.

Capacity building, knowledge sharing, and access to international expertise have enabled newer nuclear nations to develop appropriate regulatory systems and radioactive waste management strategies before challenges become more complex.

This inclusive approach is expected to remain increasingly important as more countries evaluate nuclear technologies to support economic development and climate objectives.

Looking ahead to the next 25 years

As nuclear energy is expected to play a larger role in global low-carbon transitions, the importance of effective radioactive waste management will continue to grow.

Ensuring the safe handling, storage, and disposal of radioactive materials will require ongoing innovation, international cooperation, and regulatory vigilance.

Future priorities for the Joint Convention include strengthening the peer review process, improving knowledge management, and providing continued support for countries at different stages of nuclear development.

After 25 years, the Convention’s record demonstrates how international collaboration can help maintain high safety standards while addressing one of the most important long-term responsibilities associated with nuclear technology.

Its continued evolution is likely to remain central to global efforts to ensure safe and responsible radioactive waste management for decades to come.