The interview with Hans Blix, conducted by Michal Onderco, delves into Blix's experiences as Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and his pivotal role in strengthening the agency's safeguards and mandate in the wake of nuclear proliferation challenges. Blix reflects on the lessons learned from Iraq, South Africa, and North Korea, emphasizing the need for comprehensive and intrusive inspection mechanisms to ensure compliance with nuclear treaties. He discusses the balance between diplomacy and enforcement, contrasting the IAEA's professional inspection style with the more confrontational approach of other agencies like UNSCOM. The conversation also explores Blix's advocacy for consolidating nuclear verification efforts within the IAEA, despite opposition favoring the creation of new organizations. Throughout, Blix underscores the importance of maintaining the IAEA's impartiality and technical credibility in the politically charged landscape of global nuclear governance.