Call For Papers: International Conference On Emergency Preparedness And Response
By Nayana Jayarajan, IAEA Department of Nuclear Safety and Security
Interested contributors have until May 1, 2025 to submit abstracts for the IAEA’s International Conference on Emergency Preparedness and Response.
The conference will be held from 1 December to 4 December 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and is hosted by Saudi Arabia’s Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission (NRRC). It will provide an international forum where participants can share their experiences and discuss challenges, innovations and the enabling conditions required to strengthen nuclear and radiological emergency preparedness and response (EPR). Participants will include experts from regulatory bodies, emergency response organizations, nuclear operators, technical support organizations, international organizations and more.
Sharing Best Practices in Emergency Preparedness
“This conference provides a unique platform to bring together stakeholders from across the EPR community to discuss best practices, future trends and new technologies to enhance emergency preparedness,” said Director of the IAEA Incident and Emergency Centre, which is organizing the event Carlos Torres Vidal. “By fostering international cooperation and sharing insights, we aim to help countries bolster their emergency response capabilities in a rapidly changing world.”
“Saudi Arabia is privileged to host this significant conference, organized by the IAEA, as part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen nuclear and radiological emergency preparedness nationally, regionally, and globally. Over the years, we have worked closely with the IAEA to advance capabilities and foster international cooperation in this vital field,” said Chief Executive Officer of the NRRC Khalid Aleissa.
“Through this conference, we aim to provide a platform for experts and decision-makers from all organizations involved in emergency response to collaborate, exchange insights, and shape the future of nuclear emergency preparedness and response, ensuring readiness for the challenges of an evolving world,” he added.
IAEA Support as Threats and Technologies Evolve
As the global landscape of nuclear and radiological emergency preparedness and response continues to evolve, anticipating new threats and leveraging emerging technologies are essential. To ensure countries are prepared to respond to nuclear and radiological emergencies, the IAEA develops global safety standards, provides capacity-building support, advises on technological advancements and emergency arrangements and coordinates international response efforts to minimize public health risks during incidents and emergencies.
“As we prepare for an increasingly complex emergency response environment, it is critical that we prioritize safety, security and collaboration,” said Torres Vidal. “This event will address these essential topics and explore how innovative tools and strategies can support EPR in the face of diverse challenges.”
