Introduction to JNMM Issue on IAEA Safeguards

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards make a vital contribution to international peace and security. They allow the IAEA to provide credible assurances to the international community that states are honoring their obligations to use nuclear material and technology only for peaceful purposes. Preserving the effectiveness of IAEA safeguards during this time of rising demand and static budget is paramount. We are therefore working hard to improve its productivity: striving for greater efficiency without compromising the credibility of our work. We see three main ways of doing so: firstly, by doing things more smartly and efficiently in-house and in the field; secondly, by making better use of modern technology; and thirdly, by states improving their own performance in the implementation of IAEA safeguards.