International Atomic Energy Agency — Tech Evolutions

Entry	Year	Description	Impact
N/A (Statute Amendment)	1999	The IAEA Statute was amended to increase the size of the Board of Governors from 35 to 43 members. This amendment aimed to ensure broader geographical representation and reflect the growing number of member states. However, this amendment has not yet entered into force due to insufficient ratifications by member states.	If ratified, it would enhance the representativeness of the Board of Governors, potentially leading to more inclusive decision-making processes within the IAEA. Its non-entry into force highlights the challenges of amending foundational international treaties.
N/A (Safeguards System Evolution)	1997	The Model Additional Protocol (INFCIRC/540 (Corrected)) was approved by the IAEA Board of Governors. This was not an amendment to the Statute but a significant evolution of the safeguards system, providing the IAEA with enhanced verification authority.	The Additional Protocol significantly strengthened the IAEA's ability to detect undeclared nuclear material and activities by granting broader access to information and locations. It became the new de facto standard for effective safeguards, enhancing confidence in the peaceful nature of states' nuclear programs.
N/A (Safety Standards Evolution)	Post-Fukushima (2011 onwards)	Following the Fukushima Daiichi accident in 2011, the IAEA initiated a comprehensive review of its safety standards and strengthened its framework for emergency preparedness and response. This involved updating existing safety guides and developing new ones, such as those related to severe accident management and long-term operational safety.	These post-Fukushima enhancements led to a global strengthening of nuclear safety regimes, with many countries conducting 'stress tests' on their reactors and adopting the IAEA's updated recommendations. It reinforced the IAEA's role as the global authority on nuclear safety.