Amid accelerating global efforts toward decarbonization, and against the backdrop of energy security concerns arising from Russia's invasion of Ukraine and instability in the Middle East, as well as the increasing electricity demand from AI-powered data centers, the world is turning toward the sustainable use of nuclear energy, including advanced reactors such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
At the same time, the international landscape surrounding nuclear non-proliferation and nuclear security is becoming increasingly severe, and the expanded use of nuclear and radioactive materials has raised concerns over the increasing risk of their misuse, including nuclear and radiological terrorism.
JAEA is working to advance response frameworks for nuclear and radiological terrorism (RN terrorism) and develop nuclear forensics technologies. In addition, JAEA has been designated as an IAEA Collaborating Centre for Nuclear Security, and in October of this year, nuclear forensics was newly added as a cooperation theme. As a result, we will further expand nuclear forensics technology development and actively promote international collaboration.
The International Forum 2025 will share the significance and future prospects of nuclear forensics and, through discussions on enhancing response capabilities to RN terrorism, explore ways to strengthen international frameworks for research and organizational system, promote human resource development, and advance regional and international cooperation. This forum will serve as an opportunity to reaffirm the role of nuclear forensics in strengthening the resilience of nuclear security.