Category: IAEA

A leading publisher in the nuclear field, the IAEA is preparing several influential publications in 2026. Topics range from helping countries develop their first nuclear power programmes and strengthening nuclear safety to using artificial intelligence in clinical settings. 

These upcoming releases will soon join the more than 9000 scientific and technical publications already available on the IAEA website, including international safety standards, technical guides, conference papers and scientific reports. 

The IAEA’s publications span nuclear safety and security, nuclear law, energy, transport and human health and help expand the peaceful, safe and secure applications of nuclear science in the Agency’s member countries. 

Below are five of the most anticipated publications slated for release in early 2026.

Every year, around 20 million shipments of radioactive material are transported safely by road, rail, sea and air. These materials are used in medicine, industry, research, agriculture and energy production. Because radioactive material can be hazardous to people and the environment if not properly handled, its transport requires careful planning and compliance with international safety standards and security requirements. This includes correct packaging.

Each package used for the transport of radioactive material must demonstrate compliance with the IAEA Regulations for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material, particularly for international shipments. The new safety guide, published as part of the IAEA Safety Standards Series, will offer practical recommendations to help strengthen the safety and reliability of transport operations involving radioactive material throughout the service life of packages.

This safety guide will offer advice for meeting the requirements set out in GSR Part 2, Leadership and Management for Safety. It will be designed to support operating organizations, regulatory authorities, and other governmental bodies in applying these requirements effectively. The guidance is also relevant to a broader range of organizations that contribute to safety, including technical support organizations, technical service providers, and entities within the supply chain.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significant potential to impact science and technology, including in human health. While bringing potential benefits to healthcare, the application of AI systems also introduces new challenges and risks.

The upcoming IAEA publication on Clinical Implementation of Medical Imaging Based Artificial Intelligence Systems is part of the IAEA Human Health Series. It provides a structured guidance to clinically qualified medical physicists, health professionals who are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between complex AI algorithms and practical clinical applications. 

This publication will provide comprehensive guidance for the clinical implementation of imaging-based AI systems. It will address the entire process, from the initial assessment of needs, through selection, commissioning and quality management, to eventual decommissioning. While the primary focus of this guidance is on imaging-based AI systems, will also be applicable to non-imaging-based AI tools.

The IAEA’s Milestones Approach is an internationally accepted method to implement nuclear power programmes. In 2026, the Preparation of a Feasibility Study for New Nuclear Power Projects will outline the typical steps involved in preparing a feasibility study. This study is carried out in phase 2 of the approach, and involves defining the project framework, establishing a business case for successful implementation, and providing a sound basis for the final investment decision. It also plays an important role in building and maintaining stakeholder support. 

The feasibility study development process described is adaptable to various nuclear power project technologies, project designs, sizes, locations and industrial applications, and outlines how the specific approach will vary depending on the unique objectives and drivers of each project. The publication is part of the IAEA Nuclear Energy Series.

Advanced digital technologies offer opportunities to optimize operations and maintenance at nuclear power plants, while maintaining the highest standards of safety and security. 

This publication will explore how advanced instrumentation and control systems and digital technologies can enhance nuclear power plant performance across critical attributes, such as availability, operational flexibility, engineering efficiency and environmental sustainability. 

It will offer an up-to-date overview of proven practices, innovative approaches and lessons learned throughout the plant life cycle, from design and construction to operation and long-term management. Developed to support Member States and stakeholders of the nuclear power industry, this publication, which is part of the IAEA Nuclear Energy Series, emphasizes methods that ensure safety, reliability and cost-effectiveness while leveraging digital technologies

Most IAEA publications issued after 2000 are available to download for free as PDFs, and since 2019, many free e-books are also available for e-readers.

The IAEA’s publications cover the breadth of the IAEA’s work, focusing on nuclear power, radiation therapy, nuclear safety and security, and nuclear law, among others.

To receive direct links to the latest IAEA publications (free of charge), please sign up here.

According to the International Agency for Research on cancer, Panama recorded over 8,300 new cancer cases and 3,770 deaths in 2022. Among men, prostate cancer accounts for over one‑third of all new cases, followed by colorectal and stomach cancers. Among women, breast cancer represents more than a quarter of cases, followed by colorectal and cervical cancers.  

With an aging population and continued exposure to major risk factors — including unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and tobacco use — cancer remains a public health challenge.  Projections show a further rise in cases by 2030, placing mounting strain on Panama’s health system and making it increasingly important to strengthen prevention, early detection and timely access to care.  

The team reviewed Panama’s capacities and needs across cancer control, including governance, infrastructure, human resources, and surveillance.  

Findings identified strengths in cancer care, such as a modern diagnostic and treatment infrastructure, a committed health workforce, and a legal framework to address the disease, anchored in the National Cancer Plan 2019–2029. 

At the same time, the mission identified several opportunities for growth, including improved coordination between different health subsystems – such as primary care, diagnostic services, and specialized oncology – as well as expanded training in oncology specialties and stronger data systems. 

“The imPACT Review was a deep dive into Panama’s diagnostic and therapeutic pathways. However, we are not just assessing, we are co-developing solutions, which will help translate Panama’s National Cancer Plan into actionable, technical steps that directly impact patient care tomorrow.” said Enrique Estrada Lobato, Nuclear Medicine Physician at the IAEA.  

Increasing human resource capacities, particularly the number of specialized professionals and their distribution, emerged as a priority, especially in radiotherapy, nuclear medicine, and diagnostic imaging, as Panama moves to decentralize services. Through its technical cooperation and human health programmes, the IAEA is helping to address these gaps through capacity building and expanding access to life-saving radiation medicine services. 

A key infrastructure priority is the construction of a radiotherapy bunker in Bugaba, Chiriquí province, which will house a linear accelerator (LINAC) provided by the IAEA under the Rays of Hope initiative. This will be a critical step in expanding access to high-quality cancer treatment in western Panama. Findings and preliminary recommendations from the imPACT Review presented to senior officials call for strengthening national governance and planning, accelerating infrastructure development and expanding regional oncology services. The final report will serve as a roadmap for future development and cooperation in cancer control. 

Nuclear energy ranks among the cleanest power sources when assessed across its entire lifecycle. Lifecycle analyses consider every stage — from uranium mining and fuel fabrication to plant construction, operation and decommissioning. Even with all these phases included, nuclear power’s total greenhouse gas emissions remain extremely low, comparable to wind and lower than solar.  

This is because nuclear reactors produce electricity without releasing carbon dioxide during operation, and advances in technology continue to reduce emissions from earlier stages of the fuel cycle. New reactor designs — including small modular reactors— are being developed to provide flexible, dispatchable clean energy and further minimize total emissions.  

According to the IAEA’s Power Reactor Information System (PRIS), as of 20 January 2026, 415 reactors were in operation worldwide, providing 376.0 GW(e) of nuclear capacity and supplying hundreds of millions of homes with low‑carbon electricity.  

Nuclear power plants can provide a continuous and reliable supply of energy because they operate at full capacity nearly uninterrupted. This contrasts with variable renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, whose output depends on weather conditions and typically requires backup or storage.  

This reliability is critical because: 

•  energy demand continues to grow globally.
• nuclear power complements renewables by supplying constant power, smoothing variability and reducing reliance on fossil fuel backup during lulls in wind or solar power.
• Nuclear power is increasingly being explored as a solution to meet the growing electricity demand for data centres. At the same time, AI offers powerful tools to optimize reactor performance, streamline construction and enhance operational efficiency — enabling nuclear energy to reach its full potential while maintaining standards of safe and security.   

Momentum to increase financing for nuclear energy is growing. The IAEA is expanding its cooperation with a range of international financial institutions  to support countries in exploring and financing nuclear energy, including nuclear power plants (NPPs). These partnerships include engagement with the WBG, the Asian Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and OPEC Fund. 

A total of 33 countries have endorsed the Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy, signalling a collective ambition to triple global nuclear energy capacity by 2050.  The signatories span a wide geographic range across continents and include newcomer countries such as El Salvador, Ghana, Jamaica, Kazakhstan and Rwanda. 

At the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai 2023, nuclear energy was included in the  Global Stocktake, which called for its accelerated deployment alongside other low carbon energy sources. 

The second Nuclear Energy Summit will be hosted by the Government of France in Paris on 10 March. It follows the previous Nuclear Energy Summit in 2024, in which world leaders gathered in Brussels to highlight the role of nu

High-temperature reactors, small modular reactors (SMRs) and hybrid systems can generate low-carbon heat for industrial processes, in sectors such as steel, cement, and chemical production.  Maritime transport can be enabled by SMRs or microreactors for port electrification and onboard nuclear propulsion. 

Nuclear technology continues to evolve, to become more fit for purpose for future needs. New reactor designs offer higher safety margins, improved efficiency and longer operating lifetimes, while small modular reactors (SMRs) and other advanced systems provide greater flexibility in how and where nuclear power can be deployed. 

SMRs are designed to shorten construction timelines, have lower upfront capital requirements and provide enhanced load‑following capabilities, allowing them to complement variable renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. 

Advanced reactor concepts are also being developed to improve fuel efficiency, reduce waste volumes and expand the use of alternative fuels.  

Fusion is progressing as a potential long-term clean energy source. The IAEA’s World Fusion Outlook 2025 shows that fusion is now emerging as a strategic national priority for research and development. The second Ministerial Meeting of the IAEA World Fusion Energy Group was held in Chengdu, China to discuss policies and initiatives on fusion—a potentially abundant source of clean energy capable of meeting growing development needs. 

The IAEA supports countries pursuing nuclear power programmes by providing data, analysis and knowledge on how nuclear power can contribute towards decarbonization and climate action. Through its work, the IAEA helps build skills, encourages innovation and strengthens countries’ capacities to plan and manage their energy systems. These efforts help countries meet growing energy needs, improve energy security and reduce environmental impacts, including those related to environmental change. 

Nuclear energy ranks among the cleanest power sources when assessed across its entire lifecycle. Lifecycle analyses consider every stage — from uranium mining and fuel fabrication to plant construction, operation and decommissioning. Even with all these phases included, nuclear power’s total greenhouse gas emissions remain extremely low, comparable to wind and lower than solar.  

This is because nuclear reactors produce electricity without releasing carbon dioxide during operation, and advances in technology continue to reduce emissions from earlier stages of the fuel cycle. New reactor designs — including small modular reactors— are being developed to provide flexible, dispatchable clean energy and further minimize total emissions.  

According to the IAEA’s Power Reactor Information System (PRIS), as of 20 January 2026, 415 reactors were in operation worldwide, providing 376.0 GW(e) of nuclear capacity and supplying hundreds of millions of homes with low‑carbon electricity.  

Nuclear power plants can provide a continuous and reliable supply of energy because they operate at full capacity nearly uninterrupted. This contrasts with variable renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, whose output depends on weather conditions and typically requires backup or storage.  

This reliability is critical because: 

•  energy demand continues to grow globally.
• nuclear power complements renewables by supplying constant power, smoothing variability and reducing reliance on fossil fuel backup during lulls in wind or solar power.
• Nuclear power is increasingly being explored as a solution to meet the growing electricity demand for data centres. At the same time, AI offers powerful tools to optimize reactor performance, streamline construction and enhance operational efficiency — enabling nuclear energy to reach its full potential while maintaining standards of safe and security.   

Momentum to increase financing for nuclear energy is growing. The IAEA is expanding its cooperation with a range of international financial institutions  to support countries in exploring and financing nuclear energy, including nuclear power plants (NPPs). These partnerships include engagement with the WBG, the Asian Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and OPEC Fund. 

A total of 33 countries have endorsed the Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy, signalling a collective ambition to triple global nuclear energy capacity by 2050.  The signatories span a wide geographic range across continents and include newcomer countries such as El Salvador, Ghana, Jamaica, Kazakhstan and Rwanda. 

At the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai 2023, nuclear energy was included in the  Global Stocktake, which called for its accelerated deployment alongside other low carbon energy sources. 

The second Nuclear Energy Summit will be hosted by the Government of France in Paris on 10 March. It follows the previous Nuclear Energy Summit in 2024, in which world leaders gathered in Brussels to highlight the role of nu

High-temperature reactors, small modular reactors (SMRs) and hybrid systems can generate low-carbon heat for industrial processes, in sectors such as steel, cement, and chemical production.  Maritime transport can be enabled by SMRs or microreactors for port electrification and onboard nuclear propulsion. 

Nuclear technology continues to evolve, to become more fit for purpose for future needs. New reactor designs offer higher safety margins, improved efficiency and longer operating lifetimes, while small modular reactors (SMRs) and other advanced systems provide greater flexibility in how and where nuclear power can be deployed. 

SMRs are designed to shorten construction timelines, have lower upfront capital requirements and provide enhanced load‑following capabilities, allowing them to complement variable renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. 

Advanced reactor concepts are also being developed to improve fuel efficiency, reduce waste volumes and expand the use of alternative fuels.  

Fusion is progressing as a potential long-term clean energy source. The IAEA’s World Fusion Outlook 2025 shows that fusion is now emerging as a strategic national priority for research and development. The second Ministerial Meeting of the IAEA World Fusion Energy Group was held in Chengdu, China to discuss policies and initiatives on fusion—a potentially abundant source of clean energy capable of meeting growing development needs. 

The IAEA supports countries pursuing nuclear power programmes by providing data, analysis and knowledge on how nuclear power can contribute towards decarbonization and climate action. Through its work, the IAEA helps build skills, encourages innovation and strengthens countries’ capacities to plan and manage their energy systems. These efforts help countries meet growing energy needs, improve energy security and reduce environmental impacts, including those related to environmental change.