The Saudi capital, Riyadh, is hosting today the “International Conference on Nuclear and Radiological Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR2025),” a prominent global event reflecting growing international confidence in the Kingdom’s role as an active partner in the global nuclear safety system. The four-day conference, themed “Nuclear and Radiological Emergencies: Building the Future in an Evolving World,” is organized jointly by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Saudi Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Authority (NRRA), with broad participation from experts and specialists from over 100 countries worldwide.
Historical background and global significance
This conference comes at a time of increasing global reliance on nuclear technologies in vital peaceful sectors such as electricity generation, medicine, agriculture, and industry. With this expansion, the urgent need to strengthen emergency preparedness and response frameworks to ensure human and environmental safety is paramount. Historical nuclear accidents, such as the Chernobyl disaster in 1986 and the Fukushima Daiichi accident in 2011, have been global turning points, demonstrating that radiological incidents know no geographical boundaries and underscoring the importance of international cooperation and the harmonization of standards for rapid and effective response. Since then, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been working to develop international instruments and standards to ensure the highest levels of safety.
Conference agenda and main objectives
The conference serves as a vital platform for exchanging knowledge and expertise, bringing together over 700 experts and specialists, as well as representatives from six international organizations. Its program includes the presentation of more than 120 scientific papers and 100 research posters, covering the latest innovations and best practices in emergency preparedness. Extensive panel discussions aim to address contemporary challenges, explore ways to enhance integration between national and international systems, and develop the human and technical capabilities necessary to respond to any potential nuclear or radiological emergency. The conference also features an accompanying exhibition showcasing the latest technologies and solutions that contribute to improving emergency response efficiency, presented by national and international entities and global companies.
The Kingdom's leading role and regional influence
The selection of Riyadh to host this international event, the first of its kind to be held outside the headquarters of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, is a testament to the Kingdom’s advanced standing in the field of nuclear and radiological regulation. This selection reflects the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to implementing the highest safety and security standards in its national nuclear energy program, a key pillar of Vision 2030’s energy diversification strategy. Regionally, hosting this conference contributes to strengthening cooperation among countries in the region that are showing increasing interest in nuclear energy, thus supporting the development of a comprehensive and sustainable regional safety framework.
Strengthening international cooperation for a secure future
During the opening session, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) emphasized the importance of building sustainable national capacities and strengthening international integration networks for the exchange of information and expertise. The conference provides an opportunity to review and develop the IAEA-sponsored international instruments, in which the Kingdom is an active participant, ensuring they remain aligned with the latest technological and regulatory developments. This gathering of international experts in Riyadh aims not only to discuss current challenges but also to anticipate future needs and lay a solid foundation for the safe and responsible use of nuclear technology, serving humanity and protecting the planet.
