ENSI was an active contributor to the international exchange of expertise at the International Conference on Effective Nuclear and Radiation Regulatory Systems, which took place at the IAEA in Vienna from 27 to 30 April 2026. The conference brought together regulatory authorities and experts from around the world to further develop the effectiveness of nuclear and radiation protection regulatory systems and adapt them to current challenges.

The conference focused in particular on the competence, agility and international networking of regulatory authorities. The aim was to exchange best practices, further develop regulatory approaches and discuss common responses to new developments.

ENSI Director General Marc Kenzelmann participated in the panel discussion Beyond Compliance: Building a Resilient Regulatory Culture, where he presented ENSI’s perspective on the topic. The discussion focused in particular on how regulatory authorities can remain capable of acting, independent and effective in the face of changing framework conditions. ENSI’s view is that a resilient regulatory culture is characterised by strong and independent institutions, the targeted preservation and development of expertise , diverse perspectives and sound preparation for unexpected events.

The increasingly dynamic environment also poses new challenges for nuclear regulatory oversight, which is why international exchange is all the more important.
“For Switzerland, international exchange, both in Europe and further afield, is highly important. In many areas, we are currently seeing a rapidly changing environment: new reactor technologies, regulatory approaches, the further development of oversight processes and the attractiveness of the nuclear sector to the next generation. At the same time, we are seeing rapid developments in key areas such as artificial intelligence, as well as increasing cyber risks, geopolitical tensions and climate-related challenges. To remain resilient as a regulatory authority, it is not enough to simply react to these developments. The key is to recognise and anticipate them at an early stage. This is why close exchange with international partners is essential – especially with countries that are already well advanced in these areas,” states Marc Kenzelmann.

The conference is a valuable platform for ENSI for deepening existing contacts, establishing new relationships with international partner authorities and organisations and learning from internationally recognised best practises.