Eleven Countries Elected to IAEA Board of Governors for 2025–2026 Term

Eleven countries have been newly elected to the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for the 2025–2026 term, following a vote at the 69th IAEA General Conference in Vienna. The election, held on 19 September, ensures fresh representation on the Agency’s 35-member policymaking body, which plays a central role in shaping global nuclear policy.

Newly Elected Members

The following countries will join the Board for the next two years:

• Belgium

• Chile

• Jordan

• Lithuania

• Niger

• Peru

• The Philippines

• Portugal

• Romania

• Saudi Arabia

• Togo

Their election reflects both regional rotation and recognition of their contributions to nuclear science, technology, and security.

Full Composition of the 2025–2026 Board

With these new members, the IAEA Board of Governors will now consist of the following 35 Member States:

Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Egypt, France, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, India, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Morocco, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Niger, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Portugal, Romania, the Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Thailand, Togo, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Venezuela.

Role of the Board of Governors

The IAEA Board of Governors is one of the Agency’s two principal policy-making bodies, alongside the General Conference of all 178 Member States. While the General Conference meets annually, the Board convenes multiple times per year to oversee the IAEA’s work and provide strategic guidance.

The Board’s responsibilities include:

• Reviewing and approving the IAEA’s programme and budget.

• Considering applications for IAEA membership.

• Making recommendations to the General Conference on key issues.

• Examining safeguards agreements and nuclear verification reports.

• Authorizing the conclusion of technical cooperation agreements.

Decisions of the Board are highly influential, shaping how nuclear technology is applied for peaceful purposes while strengthening safeguards against nuclear proliferation.

Upcoming Board Session

The newly composed Board will hold its first meeting on Monday, 22 September, where members will elect the Chairperson and Vice-Chairpersons for the upcoming year. These officers play a critical role in steering the Board’s deliberations and ensuring consensus among diverse Member States.

Broader Context

The election comes at a time of growing global attention on nuclear energy and security. With countries seeking low-carbon energy solutions to address climate change, the IAEA’s work in promoting the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technology has gained greater prominence.

At the same time, geopolitical tensions and concerns over nuclear non-proliferation continue to place the Agency at the center of international diplomacy. The Board of Governors is often called upon to navigate sensitive issues — from safeguards inspections to the monitoring of nuclear programmes in regions of concern.

Looking Ahead

The addition of new members from diverse regions, including Africa, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and Latin America, ensures broad representation in the Board’s decision-making process. This balanced composition is expected to strengthen dialogue and reinforce the IAEA’s role as a trusted global platform for nuclear cooperation and verification.

The IAEA Director General, Rafael Mariano Grossi, welcomed the election outcome, emphasizing that the Board’s renewed membership reflects the Agency’s commitment to inclusivity and global representation.

As the new term begins, the Board of Governors will continue to address pressing challenges in nuclear safety, security, energy, and safeguards — reaffirming its pivotal role in advancing the IAEA’s mission of promoting peaceful nuclear applications worldwide.