Rafael Grossi Reappointed as Head of IAEA for Another Four Years
The Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reaffirmed its trust in Rafael Mariano Grossi by granting him another four-year term as Director-General. This new term is set to commence at the beginning of December 2023.
In a decision reached during this week's session, the Board, consisting of representatives from 35 countries, has recommended to the General Conference – the annual gathering of 176 member states of the IAEA – to endorse Grossi's reappointment during their meeting in September.
Rafael Grossi expressed his gratitude, stating, "It is a great honour for me to be unanimously reappointed by the Board, and I am deeply appreciative of the trust that member countries continue to place in me as the leader of this organization. This comes at a time when we are facing numerous serious challenges, and I am fully committed to continuing to do everything within my power to fulfill the important mission of the IAEA in supporting global peace and development."
He went on to emphasize the critical role the IAEA plays in various fields rooted in nuclear science and technology, such as preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons, ensuring nuclear safety and security, addressing the consequences of climate change and adaptation, and the fight against cancer, among others. Grossi stressed that the Agency's role and work have become more crucial than ever, as they provide tangible benefits to people worldwide, and consequently, the scope of their work is continuously expanding.
Regarding the situation at the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Grossi noted that the Agency's experts continue to work there, as evidenced by almost daily reports on the highly unstable situation at the plant. He emphasized the paramount importance of the presence of IAEA experts at the facility, as they help maintain control over the situation and inform the world about the developments at the site.
Following the consensus decision of the Board, high-ranking representatives of member states and regional groups took the floor to congratulate Grossi on his reappointment.
These speakers highly praised his leadership in managing the Agency, characterized by a far-sighted and bold approach, especially during his first term. They commended the IAEA's ongoing efforts to ensure nuclear safety in Ukraine and also lauded Grossi's initiatives aimed at improving cancer treatment worldwide, preventing disease outbreaks, and encouraging more women to pursue careers in the nuclear industry.
Rafael Grossi assumed the position of Director-General on December 2, 2019, following his appointment by the IAEA General Conference. His second term will commence on December 3 of this year and extend until December 2, 2027. He is the sixth Director-General since the establishment of the IAEA in 1957.