Contradictions of the World's Nuclear Watchdog

Annelise Riles speaks with historian Elisabeth Roehrlich about the origins, evolution, and modern challenges of the International Atomic Energy Agency. Together they explore how the IAEA balances its dual mandate to promote civilian nuclear technologies while preventing the spread of nuclear weapons, and why its work remains both technical and deeply political. Roehrlich offers historical insight into today’s debates over inspections, nuclear safety, and the future of the global nonproliferation system.

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