The Euratom Treaty : an additional burden or a support to the industry?

Abstract

The nuclear industry in Europe is generally viewed as mature, successful, sustainable and responsible. Its development was influenced and accompanied by the implementation of the Euratom Treaty that provided early on a legal and regional framework. Through an analysis of the main chapters of the Euratom Treaty and its own development, this paper highlights some provisions that have had and still have a practical effect on the European nuclear industry. In doing so, the author hopes to highlight some of the advantages and shortcomings that might accompany the creation of new regional regulatory agencies dealing with nuclear industries in other parts of the world. Even though it would not be wise nor efficient to try and replicate the model nowadays, the Euratom approach can be inspiring to other regions and some of its tools could be very relevant to support the development of nuclear energy, and create a sense of community on a regional basis for instance in the Middle East.