An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) International Physical Protection Advisory Service (IPPAS) team of experts on 6 October completed a nuclear security advisory mission in Germany at the request of the German government.

The two-week mission looked at the legislative and regulatory framework for nuclear security, plus the physical protection of nuclear material and facilities and computer security. The team visited the Emsland nuclear plant, and the on-site interim spent fuel storage facility near the town of Lingen in northwest Germany. It also included Germany’s implementation of the 2005 Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (CPPNM). 

The team, led by Joseph Sandoval, Distinguished Member of Technical Staff at the US Sandia National Laboratories, included seven other experts from five countries and the IAEA. The team found that the nuclear security regime in Germany is "well established and incorporates the fundamental principles of the amended CPPNM." The team provided recommendations and suggestions to support Germany in enhancing and sustaining nuclear security. Some good practices were identified. 

“A strong commitment to nuclear security is a must for any State that uses nuclear energy,” said Juan Carlos Lentijo, IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security. “Germany’s example in applying IAEA Nuclear Security guidance and using IAEA advisory services demonstrates its strong commitment to nuclear security and its enhancement.”