Twenty-five years ago, a landmark international treaty entered into force, aiming to bolster nuclear safety worldwide. The Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management, adopted in 1997 and effective from 2001, represents a critical, albeit often overlooked, pillar of global nuclear security. Developed under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Convention obliges its Contracting Parties to ensure that spent fuel and radioactive waste are managed safely, minimizing risks to human health and the environment. This commitment extends from the initial stages of radioactive waste generation through its storage, reprocessing, and final disposal. The Convention fosters transparency and accountability by requiring regular peer reviews, where states share experiences, identify challenges, and commit to continuous improvement in their national safety regimes. These review meetings have proven invaluable in harmonizing international standards and promoting best practices, ultimately contributing to a more secure global nuclear landscape. The 25th anniversary provides an opportune moment to reflect on the Convention's successes and to reaffirm the ongoing commitment required to manage these materials responsibly for future generations. As the world grapples with increasing energy demands and the ongoing need for clean energy solutions, nuclear power's role remains a subject of debate. However, the safe management of spent fuel and radioactive waste is a non-negotiable prerequisite for any responsible nuclear program. The Joint Convention, therefore, continues to be a vital instrument in building and maintaining public trust and ensuring that the benefits of nuclear technology do not come at an unacceptable environmental cost. How can the international community further strengthen the implementation and enforcement of the Joint Convention to meet the evolving challenges of nuclear waste management?

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