Issue: № 2, 2025
Doi: https://doi.org/10.37634/efp.2025.2.9
The paper is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom), its historical foundations, institutional development and its role in the peaceful use of nuclear energy in Europe. The paper examines the political, economic and strategic motives that led to the creation of Euratom in the 1950s, emphasising its role in strengthening European energy independence and developing nuclear cooperation. It examines the economic situation in post-war Europe, where nuclear power was seen as a key factor in ensuring economic growth, reducing dependence on traditional energy sources and accelerating technological progress. It also examines in detail the key provisions of the 1957 Euratom Treaty, which laid the foundations for the regulation of nuclear research, investment in nuclear technology and the establishment of common safety standards. The paper highlights the consequences of this transformation, including the integration of Euratom into the institutional mechanisms of the EU, while maintaining its clear legal identity and autonomy in decision-making. Particular attention is paid to Euratom's regulatory role in the field of nuclear safety and radiation protection and its contribution to the harmonisation of EU Member States' nuclear policies. The paper also examines Euratom's international partnerships, in particular its long-standing cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in ensuring compliance with nuclear non-proliferation agreements and implementing security measures for nuclear materials. It assesses Euratom's participation in global nuclear cooperation. It also analyses Euratom's current activities and strategic priorities, focusing on its efforts to promote research and innovation in nuclear technology. This includes its involvement in the development of small modular reactors (SMRs), stimulating fusion energy research through projects such as EUROfusion, and supporting initiatives to develop modern standards for the nuclear fuel cycle.
Keywords : EURATOM, the IAEA, legal regulation of nuclear activity, nuclear power, nuclear and radiation safety
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