The Convention provides for international mechanisms for compensating the public in the event of a nuclear accident.
At the next meeting of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, the bill on the accession of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the Vienna Convention on Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (1963, Vienna) was considered and adopted by the deputies.
As a result of joining the Convention, the regime of liability for damage caused by incidents at civil nuclear facilities in Uzbekistan, the procedure and terms for compensation, financial guarantees, and operator obligations will be determined in accordance with international standards.
Setting minimum financial guarantees for nuclear facility operators for damage compensation serves as an important factor in protecting the interests of the people. This system ensures the rights of the victims, enhances trust in the national nuclear safety system, and strengthens international cooperation.
The adoption of the law will solidify the legal foundation in the nuclear energy sector in Uzbekistan. Considering the ongoing project to build a nuclear power plant in the country, including the approval of the site layout scheme for a small capacity nuclear station in the Forish district on May 8th, the importance of such international guaranteed agreements increases further.
The bill has been sent to the Senate and, if approved, Uzbekistan will formally join the Vienna Convention. This will clearly define the country's international obligations in the areas of nuclear safety and liability.
