The International Maritime Organization (IMO) participated in the International Atomic Energy Agency’s High-Level Forum launching the ATLAS initiative, held in Washington, D.C. (26 - 27 August 2026).
ATLAS (Atomic Technologies Licensed for Applications at Sea) is designed to strengthen international cooperation on the safe, secure and safeguarded use of nuclear technologies at sea, reflecting growing global interest in advanced maritime nuclear applications.
IMO contributed to discussions on the legal, regulatory, safety, security, safeguards and liability frameworks needed to support the potential future deployment of nuclear-powered ships and other maritime nuclear applications.
IMO's Deputy Director at the Maritime Safety Division (Marine Technology and Cargoes), Mr. Masud Karim, highlighted the organization's mandate for global ship safety, maritime security and marine environmental protection, while underlining the complementary role of the IAEA in nuclear safety, security and safeguards.
The launch of ATLAS is expected to provide a structured platform for dialogue among governments, regulators, international organizations, industry and other stakeholders.
IMO’s participation reinforces its commitment to continued cooperation with the IAEA and Member States to ensure that any future maritime nuclear innovation is supported by robust international standards and upholds high levels of safety, security and environmental protection.
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