6th IRPA European Congress
The 6th European Congress on Radiation Protection was held in Budapest 30 May – 3 June 2022. With the theme ‘Radiation Protection for Everyone’, the congress drew scientists from many different fields involved in radiation protection. It was a hybrid event, with both online and virtual access options and it featured a stimulating mix of plenary & parallel presentations, workshops, refresher courses and digital poster sessions. A range of interesting technical site visits were also available for participants designed to broaden both knowledge and professional network.
Education and training in radiation protection featured as a significant thread throughout the conference. An EUTERP board members presentation titled ‘Working together on education & training in radiation protection’ was very well attended at the highlighted presentations session on the opening day of the conference, setting the scene for the many high-quality scientific sessions on E&T that were to follow. A refresher course on systematic approaches to RP training, provided practical tips and tricks for the development and implementation of training programmes. There have been many changes in recent years and the scientific community has had to face new challenges such as remote learning, which have increased the pressure and responsibility on radiation protection professionals. Refreshing knowledge and keeping informed of current trends and research are such valuable tools in addressing these new challenges.
Besides the outstanding lectures and scientific sessions thought the 5-day congress, the impressive social programme was a lot of fun. The welcome reception was a wonderfully celebratorily event. For many this was the first face to face congress since 2020 and meeting up with colleagues and exchanging ideas and discussion over coffee and lunches was a welcomed return to normality. An EUTERP Associates reception during the congress, provided an opportunity for new members of the EUTERP board to introduce themselves, talk about their background and their interests in RP Education and training. It also provided an excellent forum for associates to ask questions and talk about strategic objectives over the coming year. The congress programme also included a fascinating city tour took in the most beautiful and interesting parts of Budapest. A highlight for many however was the unforgettable gala dinner aboard a boat, cruising beneath the magnificent bridges across the river Danube. The 7th European Congress of the International Radiation Protection Association will take place in Liverpool on 1-5 June 2026. This will be a key diary date for radiation protection professionals across the globe.