Teaching Methodology
The NLI uses interactive teaching methods that emphasize practice and engagement. It combines concise “impulse” lectures on the fundamentals of nuclear law with facilitated small?group sessions (known as “TOP sessions”) that focus on applying lecture content, with a focus on legislative drafting exercises.
An impulse lecture delivers key messages on specific nuclear law topics with a clear learning objective that leads into smaller group sessions, the so-called TOP sessions.
TOP sessions are intended to give participants the opportunity to discuss the lecture content in a structured manner and relate it to their own experience and objectives.
In addition, legislative drafting exercises focusing on specific areas of nuclear law are organized in small groups. The course concludes with a group presentation of the exercise results.
Learning is supported by online materials.
Course Programme
The NLI takes place over a two-week period and addresses the following aspects of nuclear law:
- Nuclear and Radiation Safety
- Nuclear Security
- Safeguards and non-Proliferation
- Nuclear Liability and Insurance
In addition, Special Sessions are organised to offer in-depth exploration of specific topics and new trends in the nuclear field. As examples, the following sessions were held in the past years:
- Relationships between Environmental Law and Nuclear Law
- Financial Aspects of Decommissioning
- Legal Aspects of Small and Medium-Sized Reactors
- Synergies Between Safety and Security
- Nuclear Trade
Teaching Staff
All lectures and presentations are delivered by well-known experts from the IAEA and other institutions. During the two-week training, the participants also benefit from the close guidance of facilitators who are experienced and recognized nuclear law experts.
