Uzbekistan Joins the Vienna Convention on Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage
Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — At its eighth plenary session, the Senate approved the Law on the Accession of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the Vienna Convention on Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage, signed on 21 May 1963.
During the discussion, it was noted that joining this international agreement will allow Uzbekistan to implement key legal norms regulating liability for damage caused by incidents at civilian nuclear energy facilities. The Convention establishes principles and mechanisms for compensating harm, including the right to restitution in the event of a nuclear accident.
The document aims to ensure that the operator of a nuclear installation is held liable for any damage caused, while also setting minimum requirements for financial guarantees to protect affected parties. This includes obligations related to compensation and the procedures for its implementation in case of incidents.
It was emphasized that Uzbekistan’s participation in the Convention will allow for the application of internationally recognized legal protection mechanisms, enhance confidence in the national nuclear safety system, and improve the country’s preparedness to respond to potential emergencies.
Moreover, accession to the Vienna Convention contributes to strengthening international cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, expands engagement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and supports the implementation of new promising projects.
The document also paves the way for the development of an effective system for risk insurance and compensation payments, which is a key prerequisite for the safe advancement of the nuclear industry in the country.