The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has elected Peter Burian, Slovakia’s Resident Representative to international organizations in Vienna, as president of its 69th General Conference, marking a key leadership transition for the global nuclear watchdog during its weeklong session from September 15 to 19, 2025.

Burian, appointed following consultations among IAEA Member States, assumes the role previously held by South Korea’s Sang Wook Ham in 2024. The presidency, a one-year term for the duration of the conference, oversees critical discussions on nuclear safety, non-proliferation, and energy cooperation. Burian brings extensive diplomatic experience, having served as Slovakia’s Ambassador to the United States (2008-2012), Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York (2004-2008), and Ambassador to NATO (1999-2003). Since 2023, he has represented Slovakia at the UN, OSCE, and other Vienna-based bodies, while also chairing the 12th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime.

His career includes roles as EU Special Representative for Central Asia (2015-2021) and Slovakia’s State Secretary for Foreign and European Affairs (2012-2015), focusing on security, economic diplomacy, and development. A graduate of St. Petersburg University’s School of Oriental Studies and Comenius University, where he earned a PhD, Burian has received multiple honors for fostering international cooperation. His leadership comes as the IAEA addresses pressing issues like nuclear security and clean energy transitions, highlighted at the concurrent Scientific Forum on September 16-17.

The election, announced Monday, sets the stage for a conference tackling global nuclear policy amid rising geopolitical tensions and energy demands. Burian’s diplomatic track record positions him to navigate complex debates, though some observers note the presidency’s largely procedural role limits direct policy influence. The conference’s outcomes will shape IAEA priorities, including safeguards and technical cooperation, as outlined in its Rules of Procedure.