The global energy crisis is driving innovation in the utilization of alternative energy
sources, including nuclear energy, which is considered a potential solution due to
its large electricity production capacity and low carbon emissions. However, the
utilization of nuclear energy also raises various problems, especially in radioactive
waste management. One case that has become a global concern is the disposal of
nuclear waste into the sea by the Fukushima Daiichi NPP, Japan, which has raised
concerns about its impact on the marine environment. This research aims to
analyze the regulation of the authority of the International Atomic Energy Agency
(IAEA) in supervising the disposal of nuclear waste into the sea by the Fukushima
NPP in Japan, focusing on legal gaps and the effectiveness of supervision. The
research method used is normative law, with analysis of primary legal materials
such as IAEA statute, 1982 UNCLOS, London Convention and Protocol, and Joint
Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of
Radioactive Waste Management, as well as secondary legal materials such as
literature and journals. The results show that although the IAEA has the authority
to set safety standards and conduct inspections, the IAEA statute does not explicitly
regulate the disposal of nuclear waste into the sea, resulting in legal uncertainty.
The conclusion of this study confirms that strengthening the authority of the IAEA
in the supervision of nuclear waste disposal to the sea is needed, through
amendments or revisions to the IAEA Statute as well as amendments or
harmonization with other international legal instruments. This step is expected to
ensure stricter safety standards, increase transparency, and strengthen
accountability mechanisms for countries that discharge nuclear waste into the sea.