Radiation Monitoring and Preparedness in Global Health Systems
Published: 2026-05-30 | EMFSA
Radiation monitoring and preparedness is a critical focus area in global public health policy. On 23 May 2026, the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly approved the first global resolution on radiation and health, titled Radiation and health: strengthening global protection, preparedness and response.
This landmark resolution marks the first time Member States have agreed on a comprehensive international framework addressing both ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.
The resolution highlights the importance of strengthening national systems for radiation protection, including improved exposure monitoring, workforce training, and integration of radiation risk management into broader public health and emergency preparedness frameworks. It emphasizes improving exposure monitoring as a core function of effective health protection systems.
Member States are also encouraged to ensure the safe and equitable use of radiation in medical applications, including imaging, radiotherapy, and radiopharmaceuticals. This includes strengthening regulatory oversight, quality assurance systems, and professional training.
A key priority of the resolution is addressing both ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, reflecting the full spectrum of environmental, medical, occupational, and emergency-related exposure risks.
In addition, the resolution promotes stronger public communication, international cooperation, and evidence-based policymaking to improve global preparedness and reduce radiation-related health risks.
WHO will also map global stakeholders, identify gaps in implementation, and report progress to the World Health Assembly in 2028.
Source / Attribution
Source: Adapted from World Health Organization (WHO), Radiation and health: strengthening global protection, preparedness and response, World Health Assembly Daily Update, 23 May 2026.
WHO daily update – 23 May 2026