Side Event “35th Anniversary of the Closure of the Semipalatinsk Test Site: From National Tragedy to National Pride”

On 16 September 2026, a side event of the Republic of Kazakhstan titled “35th Anniversary of the Closure of the Semipalatinsk Test Site: From National Tragedy to National Pride” was held in Vienna on the sidelines of the 70th session of the IAEA General Conference.  

This event devoted to 35-year journey since the closure of the STS – from studying and overcoming the consequences of nuclear testing to the development of modern science, the strengthening of nuclear and radiation safety, and the use of accumulated scientific and experimental potential for peaceful purposes.

Welcome remarks were delivered to participants by Mr. G.E. Sergazin, Deputy Chairman of the Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Atomic Energy. Participants also welcomed by Mrs. Sandra Marie Steyskal, Section Head at the IAEA.  

The main part of the program was opened by V.A. Vityuk, Deputy Director General for Science of NNC RK, who presented the key stages in the transformation of the scientific and technical potential formed after the closure of the Semipalatinsk Test Site, as well as the current areas of activity of the National Nuclear Center.

Special attention during the event was given to the results of long-term radioecological research conducted on the territory of the former site. Mrs. A.K. Aidarkhanova, Department Head at the Institute of Radiation Safety and Ecology Branch of NNC RK, presented the results of comprehensive research into the radioecological situation and scientific approaches to the systematic management of the former test site territory.   

Modern research carried out by the National Nuclear Center, aimed at developing the experimental base and providing scientific and technical support for promising areas of nuclear energy sector of Kazakhstan, was presented by Mr. A.Zh. Miniyazov, Deputy Director of the Institute of Atomic Energy Branch of NNC RK.  

Thus, the side event presented the history of the Semipalatinsk Test Site across several interconnected dimensions – historical, radioecological, and scientific-technological. Particular emphasis was placed on the fact that the accumulated knowledge, unique experimental infrastructure, and expertise of Kazakhstani specialists are being used today to address pressing challenges in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, as well as in ensuring nuclear and radiation safety.  

Holding the side event at the IAEA GC provided an opportunity to present to the international community the results of long-term work of Kazakhstan and NNC, and to demonstrate how sustained scientific activity and international cooperation can transform a complex nuclear legacy into knowledge, technologies and expertise aimed at ensuring safety, advancing science and shaping a peaceful future.