Frequently asked questions: GIF operating mode
Does the GIF have any legal basis? How does it operate?
The GIF legal basis comes from an intergovernmental agreement, called the Framework Agreement, signed by state bodies. These state bodies are represented within the GIF Policy Group, responsible for implementing cooperation for the realization of its R&D activities. The governance structure also consists of numerous other working groups and committees, which bring together the technical expertise. R&D activities are carried out at the level of project arrangements set within each of the six system arrangements established under the Framework Agreement. Read more...
How is the GIF financed?
Each party finances its own R&D activities. According to the GIF cooperation terms, information/data required for R&D activities are provided free of charge by each partner, according to given confidentiality rules. R&D tasks are then divided between partners and results are shared. The contribution by each party is accounted for in the sharing of royalty fees resulting from any industrial application. Read more...
Shouldn't it be the nuclear industry's job to develop and commercialize new reactors?
The GIF's goal is to foster international cooperation a mo ng countries, in order to produce the technological building blocks to be used by the industrial sector in the subsequent stage of the design of the nuclear systems to be deployed around 2030. Though industry is involved in the GIF activities, responsibility for such research must also fall on R&D organisations and the public sector. Read more...
How does a country become a member of the GIF? Why are some countries listed as being "non-active" members of the GIF? Is there any concern that these "non-active" members will withdraw completely from the GIF?
The Forum decides, on a unanimous basis, whether a country can become a member of GIF. This decision is taken on the basis of the country's nuclear program, as well as its capacity to contribute to the development of Gen-IV. "Non-active" status has been accorded to three original signatories of the GIF Charter who have neither signed nor ratified the Framework Agreement and who no longer take active part in GIF activities. Read more...
Where are the GIF offices? What is the NEA's role in the GIF?
GIF has no permanent offices. R&D activities are performed in each member country, and the secretariat functions are carried out by the country whose representative chairs the Forum. The OECD/NEA acts as the GIF Technical Secretariat. Read more...
Watch an Introduction to Generation IV Nuclear Energy Systems and the International Forum (requires Adobe Flash Player, or download in pdf format, 1.2 mb)
Download an Overview of the GIF (pdf, 161 kb)
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