Year
2003
Abstract
The IAEA’s safeguards program requires a complex system to support and manage all aspects of information detection, collection, processing and evaluation. Large parts of that system are supported by information technology with a history. With new requirements from the implementation of existing safeguards agreements, a strengthened safeguards system, the Additional Protocol and Integrated Safeguards changes are inevitable. Access to and analysis of open sources and commercial satellite imagery is required. Internet, e-mail, communication and networking technology have provided new capabilities for inspectors and other staff to access a wide variety of safeguards information from different places. Confidentiality of information and system security has gained a new dimension. Safeguards conclusions require more and more interconnected information. Fifteen years of zero-growth budget have slowed down needed development and expansion. Much of the progress thus far could be afforded only with the generous extra-budgetary help from Member States. The information infrastructure must keep in step with the growing requirements from safeguards verification and evaluation activities. The Department of Safeguards has begun the IAEA Safeguards Information System (ISIS) Reengineering Project, whose main objective is the integration of all information sources, the ease of access from authorized inspectors and other staff, its availability and security, and a flexibility to maintain the system for many years to come.