Science and Values in Radiological Protection, Helsinki, Finland, 15-17 January 2008

Key scientific challenges arising from ongoing radiobiological research have been identified recently. From this scientific base, the possible implications for radiological protection science are expected to be further elaborated. Through discussions among members of various NEA committees, it is clear that there is a need for radiological protection policy makers, regulators and practitioners to better understand possible developments coming from radiological protection science. At the same time, there is also a need for radiological protection scientists to better understand the broad processes of radiological protection decision making and to better interact with these processes in terms of furnishing input coming from their research. Participants in this workshop will attempt to identify elements of a framework that are better suited for the integration of new scientific and technological developments and socio-political considerations into radiological protection.

This workshop initiated a process of reflection and dialogue among researchers, policy makers and other stakeholders that will, in the longer term:

improve understanding in both the research and policy communities of what is at stake in the system of radiological protection as scientific knowledge and social values evolve;
contribute to the development of a more shared view of emerging scientific and societal challenges to radiological protection, taking into account existing differences;
identify research that will better inform decision makers' judgments on emerging issues;
be the first step in the identification of elements of a framework that is better suited for the integration of new scientific and technological developments and socio-political considerations into radiological protection; and
identify the most appropriate next steps in this process.

To achieve the above objectives, selected examples of emerging radiological protection issues were addressed during the workshop.

Following the workshop, a summary paper highlighting the key points will be prepared.

Science and Values in Radiological Protection

Helsinki, Finland, 15-17 January 2008

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