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Paris hosted the Second World Nuclear Energy Summit on 10 March 2026, drawing leaders from over 60 countries, international organizations, and industry experts to discuss the future of civil nuclear energy. Organized by the French government in partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the summit aimed to explore how nuclear power can meet rising energy demands while supporting global climate goals.
France President Emmanuel Macron highlighted nuclear energy as a cornerstone for energy independence, decarbonization, and economic competitiveness. “Investing in nuclear power is investing in our future,” Macron said, calling for increased public and private financing to expand civil nuclear capacity worldwide.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described Europe’s previous reduction in nuclear reliance as a “strategic mistake,” announcing a €200 million EU guarantee to support small modular reactors (SMRs) and attract private sector investment.
Delegates discussed the importance of research, technological innovation, and financing structures to overcome barriers to nuclear energy expansion. Small modular reactors, international partnerships, and workforce development were central topics, alongside strategies to triple global nuclear capacity by 2050.
The summit included representation from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, demonstrating broad interest in nuclear development. Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame used the platform to advocate for international collaboration and funding to advance Rwanda’s emerging nuclear program.
While the summit focused on global collaboration, protests by environmental activists highlighted public concern over nuclear safety, waste management, and reliance on nuclear energy over renewables. The discussions also occurred amid ongoing energy market volatility, reinforcing the urgency of diversified and secure energy strategies.
The 2026 summit positioned nuclear energy as a key tool in the global energy transition, emphasizing international cooperation, innovation, and sustainable investment. It reinforced that civil nuclear power is not just a technical solution, but a strategic lever for energy sovereignty, climate action, and economic resilience.
