The International Chernobyl Cooperation Account

The International Chernobyl Cooperation Account (ICCA) was established in November 2020 by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), following a request from the Ukrainian government, to aid in devising a comprehensive plan for Chornobyl. In light of the Russian conflict with Ukraine, the scope of the Account has expanded to encompass various measures aimed at restoring nuclear safety, security, and decommissioning capabilities within the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone. The Account's mandate now also allows for activities throughout Ukraine's nuclear sector to support nuclear safety, subject to the approval of the Assembly of Contributors.

As of end-2023, ICCA has received contributions for more than €15 million from 15 donors: Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and the United States. Donations were also received from Greece, Portugal, Romania and Slovenia.

The initial ICCA Grant Agreement was executed in March 2023 to bolster fire safety measures within the Exclusion Zone. Ongoing efforts include conducting safety assessments of the "Object Shelter" and providing assistance for transportation infrastructure and operations related to the New Safe Confinement.

In the long run, ICCA will concentrate on sustaining site infrastructure and ensuring the safe operation of decommissioning facilities within the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, particularly those that received support through extensive international collaboration. The impact of the Russian conflict on Ukraine will necessitate continuous evaluation, but it is evident that the capacity for stable site operations has been significantly compromised. The challenges facing Ukraine in safely decommissioning one of the world's most complex nuclear facilities will be formidable.