Uzbekistan joins nuclear liability convention, commits to compensating citizens in case of accidents

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed the law on September 26, marking the country’s accession to the international treaty adopted in Vienna in 1963. Under the convention, Uzbekistan acknowledges its obligation to cover damages resulting from incidents at civilian nuclear facilities.

The government will establish the procedures, timelines, and principles for compensation, ensuring that citizens are protected under an internationally recognized nuclear liability regime. The convention also sets out minimum financial security requirements for nuclear operators and outlines their direct responsibility for damages caused by incidents at facilities under their control.

Officials noted that accession to the treaty will pave the way for introducing insurance systems and compensation mechanisms in Uzbekistan’s nuclear energy sector. It is also expected to strengthen cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and expand participation in its programs, including future projects in the country.

Nearly 50 states are currently parties to the convention.

It should be noted that on the same day the law was signed, Tashkent reached an agreement with Russia to consider building a traditional high-capacity nuclear power plant in Jizzakh, in addition to the small modular reactor already planned at the site.