During the pinnacle of the atomic age, amid widespread fears and expectations of nuclear technology, United States President Dwight D. Eisenhower proposed an international atomic energy-focused agency through his “Atoms for Peace” speech, given to the United Nations General Assembly. Thus, the International Atomic Energy Agency was founded with the mission to enhance global nuclear safety, advocating for the peaceful use of this innovative energy source. From the protection of nuclear facilities to the novel research of radioactive materials, the IAEA continues to strive for international nuclear excellence and, to this day, significantly impacts modern-day global affairs.
This committee is specifically designed for intermediate and experienced delegates. Position papers, although strongly recommended, are not required. However, delegates who wish to be considered for an award must submit their position papers by January 12, 2026, at 23:59 PST. More information about position papers can be found in the Position Paper Guide, on the Delegate Resources Page.
Topic A: The Regulation of Small Modular Reactors (Click to show summary)
The regulation of small modular reactors (SMRs) has been an unresolved issue since the introduction of these versatile and powerful nuclear machines. SMRs are advanced nuclear reactors with capacities under 300 MWe per unit, and are designed to be transportable and deployable in remote or decentralized locations for quick nuclear power. Due to this technology’s novelty, substantial international regulations are minimal, limiting international jurisdiction over these reactors. From potential militarization risks to proliferation dangers, there exist many barriers that obstruct the establishment of standardized regulation protocols. This makes the responsive and active regulation of SMRs a vital issue which must be addressed by the international nuclear community.
Topic B: Nuclear Infrastructure in Conflict Zones (Click to show summary)
The protection of nuclear facilities and materials in areas of armed conflict has emerged, in light of recent events, as a critical security concern. The damaging effects of these increasingly prevalent strikes often include radioactive waste leakages, environmental hazards, severe humanitarian consequences, and numerous other detrimental impacts. Past IAEA protocols on physical security have been viewed as insufficient, as nuclear facilities in high-tension regions are still under threat. As such, the protection of nuclear infrastructure remains a pressing issue that could jeopardize global security and escalate conflicts. It is crucial for the IAEA to develop proper frameworks and safeguards for vulnerable facilities to safeguard nuclear infrastructure in present and future conflicts.
Wilson Li | Director
Currently studying at St. George’s school and entering his Grade 11 year, Wilson is delighted to be serving as the Director of IAEA at VMUN 2026. Having joined MUN since grade 6 back in Taiwan, Wilson developed a natural passion for solving global issues together with like-minded individuals. While his singular speech at his first conference was not the best, Wilson dove straight into the fascinating world of MUN with hopes to foster connections and help the world. As a director, he wishes to bring the joy and excitement MUN has given him to all the delegates in his committee. Outside of the committee room, you can find him rowing with his crew, furiously collecting new records, and grinding rhythm games at the arcade. Wilson is looking forward to a weekend of fruitful debate and can not wait to meet all the delegates!
Sophia Chiu | Chair
As a Grade 12 student at York House School, Sophia is elated to serve as the Chair of IAEA at VMUN 2026. Being persuaded to join Model UN in the tenth grade, Sophia was ill-prepared for all the energy and passion delegates brought to this non-spectator sport. Since then, she has come to value the way Model UN encourages meaningful discussion, collaborative thinking, and thorough research. Outside of the committee room, Sophia can be found struggling in pilates class, getting her nails done, or attempting to parallel park on an empty side street. Sophia wishes everyone a productive and memorable conference, and is looking forward to meeting everyone!
Nyah Bates | Assistant Director
Enrolling in Grade 10 at Urban Academy, Nyah is elated to serve as the Assistant Director for IAEA in the 25th iteration of VMUN! Having begun her MUN journey at this same conference in 2024, Nyah has found purpose in addressing global affairs, navigating complex debate, and actively participating in the discussion of the world’s most prominent international obstacles. Outside the committee room, Nyah can be found adjusting essays to squeeze into the word limit, listening to her favourite true crime podcasts while baking, and playing ice hockey. This year, she has dedicated herself to ensuring that VMUN 2026 exceeds the expectations of its delegates, motivated by the timeless memories and valued friendships she has discovered within the same vibrant community. Nyah looks forward to a weekend of productive debate and wishes delegates the best of luck in their preparation!
You can contact the Director at iaea@vmun.com. Any questions regarding the committee or its debate procedures will be answered by email. Position papers must also be submitted to this address.