The "International Conference on Effective Nuclear and Radiation Regulatory Systems: Preparing for the Future in a Rapidly Changing Environment" was held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, from 13-16 February 2023.

The IAEA organises this conference format at different locations once every three years. The event provides a platform for representatives of nuclear regulatory authorities worldwide to exchange views on regulatory challenges and nuclear safety issues. The aim is to contribute to the continuous improvement of the global safety regime. The first conference of this kind took place in 2006.

Panel discussion on dismantling and decommissioning nuclear power plants

This year's conference was marked by multiple global crises. Dr. Mareike Rüffer, Head of the Nuclear Safety Department at BASE, was invited to represent Germany. In a panel discussion on "Full Lifecycle Challenges and Strategies", she talked about the challenges and experiences in regulating nuclear facilities in different lifecycles. The focus of the discussion was on the decommissioning and dismantling of nuclear power plants.

Germany is committed to ensuring that the issue of waste management is taken into account from the outset when planning government nuclear energy programmes worldwide.