A report published in August 2006 as an outcome STARC (Stakeholders in Risk Communication), a Commission supported project, examines the role of risk communication [1] in the management of a modern society.

The survey analyses national risk communication practices in three industrial sectors of the EU-25 - electricity, chemical waste and GM food. According to the report, few countries have risk communication plans or guidelines which are separate from their risk management plans. Moreover, the practice of risk communication varies widely from one country to another. The authors call for an annual forum to exchange good practice.

In particular, the authors highlight the need to identify and involve stakeholders and stakeholder groups in the risk-management process. Other recommendations include:
 establishment of government surveys of stakeholders’ perception of risks;
 requirement for companies listed on a stock exchange to include a risk assessment in their annual reports;
 co-ordination of risk communication between the private and public sectors.

More information about the STARC project.