Law No.1 of 2024 of the National Nuclear, Radiological, Chemical and Biological Regulatory Authority.

This Law, comprising 34 articles, aims to (i) regulate the safe and peaceful use of atomic energy across sectors such as medicine, agriculture, industry, and education; (ii) protect workers, the public, and the environment from the risks of ionizing radiation and illicit handling of hazardous materials; (iii) establish a legal framework and a national authority to ensure safety in line with international standards; (iv) prevent the use of the territory of the Republic of Iraq - including its land, territorial waters, airspace, and all areas under its jurisdiction - for any activities prohibited under its obligations pursuant to relevant treaties and international agreements. Under Article 5, the Authority is responsible for (i) developing regulatory policies, plans, and legislation; (ii) coordinating nationally and internationally with relevant institutions; (iii) representing the country in regional and global frameworks. It establishes and maintains national registries and databases for nuclear materials, radiation sources, and related activities. It regulates, licenses, inspects, and enforces safety and security standards for nuclear, radiological, chemical, and biological activities, including radiation protection, emergency preparedness, and management of radioactive materials and waste. It also sets limits, standards, and liability rules related to damages. Additionally, the Authority promotes research, capacity building, and infrastructure development; strengthens cooperation and information exchange; prevents unauthorized access, misuse, or trafficking of hazardous materials; ensures compliance with international treaties and non-proliferation obligations; and implements mechanisms for reporting, monitoring, and safe handling of regulated materials. The Authority is governed by a Board, responsible for approving the Authority’s overall policies, strategy, and annual plans, as well as endorsing regulatory instructions, the annual budget, agreements, and the annual report. It also oversees the Authority’s performance to ensure the achievement of its objectives.
Chapter 5 addresses the use and management of nuclear, radiological, chemical, and biological materials, setting out clear rules to ensure safety and accountability. It establishes that (i) no facility may handle radioactive materials—including production, transport, sale, import, export, or disposal—without a valid license; (ii) the import of radioactive waste from other countries for storage or burial is strictly prohibited; (iii) the handling of these materials must comply with regulations issued by the national regulatory authority, which oversees safety and ensures compliance at every stage. The authority also monitors the use of radiation sources, identifies both licensed and unlicensed sources, and publicly discloses this information. Additionally, it issues licenses for facilities, operations, and personnel working in radiation areas (minimum age 18), certifies the safety of materials and facilities, and ensures that organizations appoint qualified radiation safety officers. Licenses and safety certifications are subject to fees, while the Prime Minister’s instructions define the procedures, conditions, and duration for issuing, renewing, and maintaining them. This framework ensures that all activities involving hazardous materials are strictly controlled, transparent, and conducted with the highest standards of safety.
The Law also deals with (i) workers' rights and privileges; (ii) penalties.