View back: milestones of nuclear policy and radiation security

View back: milestones of nuclear policy and radiation security

Wien, Österreich - On June 2, 2025, the exhibition "Living With Radiation" will be opened, which presents the results of a comprehensive research project by the Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU). Under the direction of Prof. Dr. Maria Rentetzi examines the project Central milestones of nuclear policy and radiation security. The FAU has received funding of two million euros from the European Research Council (ERC). The exhibition will take place from June 12th to August 31st in the Siemens Med Museum.

The importance of radiation protection has increased significantly over time, especially after the toxicity of radioactive radiation in medicine, research and industry has been recognized. In the 1960s, the legal foundations for radiation protection after nuclear accidents, such as the catastrophic incident in Chernobyl, were developed. The exhibition illuminates how social and political developments were based on this progress.

role of the international nuclear energy authority

A central actor in the development of radiation protection guidelines is the International Atomic Aviation (IAEA) , which was founded in 1957. Their foundation was a reaction to the need to ensure both peaceful use and the control of nuclear energy. This authority, which emerged from a collaboration between the United States and the Soviet Union, pursues the goal of promoting the applications of nuclear energy for peace, health and prosperity and at the same time preventing military use.

The IAEA has a long history of cooperation that extends to the beginnings of nuclear technology. As early as 1925, the first radiation protection standards were decided at an international radiology conference. Since then, the agency has continuously expanded its role in determining global security standards and conducts regular reports on developments in atomic energy in the UN General Assembly.

historical milestones

The IAEA, with its headquarters in Vienna, has made significant contributions to the security and promotion of nuclear technologies since it was founded. Especially after the atomic bombing over Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the need for diplomatic conversations for the standardization of protective guidelines became evident. The IAEA also maintains regional offices in New York, Geneva, Toronto and Tokyo and organizes international programs that support, for example, the application of nuclear technology in medicine and agriculture.

The exhibition "Living with Radiation" will also respond to the role of scientists in this area and thereby create a social awareness of the topic. As Rentetzi and her team find out, a comprehensive approach to radiation protection is not only a technical challenge, but also requires a deep understanding of social contexts and developments.

The IAEO has recorded numerous successes, including the maintenance of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005. Nevertheless, there is also criticism of its support for civil use of nuclear energy, despite the strict surveillance of military use. One element of your work is special reaction and support networks that are activated in the event of nuclear emergencies to provide quick and expert help.

The exhibition will not only present significant scientific knowledge, but also examine the complex social, political and historical dimensions of nuclear policy.