International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programmes

Background

Nuclear energy can help countries achieve energy security, climate goals and drive sustainable development. Engaging with stakeholders at all stages of the nuclear fuel cycle, up to and including the disposal of radioactive waste, is an essential part of any complete nuclear power programme. Involving stakeholders, even those that do not have a direct role in making decisions, can enhance public confidence, support informed decision making and strengthen communication among the key organizations involved in nuclear power programmes. In this regard, it is necessary to understand the opinions and concerns of stakeholders, including the public, and address these concerns effectively in a consistent and clear way. The factors that most influence stakeholders’ support include nuclear and radiation safety, nuclear security, waste management, environmental impact and proliferation risks as well as the understanding of the benefits associated with a nuclear power programme. Building strong, positive, and long-term relationships with stakeholders is a key element for both existing and future nuclear power programmes.

A nuclear power programme is a major undertaking and a long-term commitment, for the entire facilities’ life cycle right through to final disposal of the ensuing waste. This requires careful planning, preparation and investment in terms of time, institutions, and human resources. The IAEA Milestones Approach (NG-G-3.1 Rev.2 pre-print) identifies 19 infrastructure issues that need to be addressed during the three phases of nuclear infrastructure development to ensure the sustainable implementation of a nuclear power programme. Stakeholder engagement is one of those issues; it is also subject to IAEA Safety Requirements.

The IAEA has in place a set of activities to support Member States in the area of stakeholder engagement by providing guidance on communicating and engaging with both internal and external stakeholders and regularly holding international, national and regional events on stakeholder engagement.

In response to increasing interest and requests for support on stakeholder engagement and communicating about nuclear energy, the IAEA is organizing the first International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programmes from 26 to 30 May 2025, in Vienna, Austria.

Purpose and Objectives

The conference will provide a global platform to exchange good practices, experiences, challenges and lessons learned related to stakeholder engagement for nuclear power programmes. It will enhance global understanding of diverse perspectives, concerns, and interests of stakeholders involved in nuclear power programmes at various levels. It will also share methods and approaches to address the concerns of stakeholders and incorporate their views into the decision-making process.

Target Audience

The conference is open to participants from Member States that are embarking on or considering embarking on new nuclear power programmes as well as Member States with operating nuclear power plants, including those considering expanding their nuclear power programmes. The conference is also open to participants from Member States implementing or planning to implement nuclear fuel cycle activities and/or radioactive waste management activities related to nuclear power programmes. Participants are expected to include stakeholder engagement practitioners and communication experts, policy makers, government officials, regulators, owners, operators, technical support organizations, waste management organizations, organizations which represent local community interests, industry representatives, research and academic institutions, non‑governmental organizations and international organizations with an interest in stakeholder engagement for nuclear programmes.

The IAEA highly encourages the participation of women, early career professionals, and individuals from developing countries.

Exhibitions

A limited amount of space will be available for commercial vendors’ displays/exhibits during the conference. Interested parties should contact the Scientific Secretariat by email SEConf-2025 by 13 December 2024.