The relationship between trust and perceived nuclear risk is not universal: lower in the UK and higher in Sweden

This study (see source document for full reference) also demonstrated that the level of risk was more sensitive to changes in the level of trust in the UK than in Sweden (Viklund, 2003). Namely, the least trusting participants in the UK showed a higher perceived risk than the least trusting participants in Sweden. Also, the most trusting participants in the UK showed a lower perceived risk that the most trusting participants in Sweden (Viklund, 2003). Authors of this study proposed that observed differences between countries probably reflect the level of knowledge about nuclear risk in countries with higher level of knowledge about nuclear power, the trust in authorities might be less relevant for judging risks. This study shows that strength of the relationship between trust and perceived nuclear risk cannot be treated as universal, which represents an important finding for risk management in different countries.

Note: See source document for full reference.

Cultural Factors: Ethnicity, Attitudes toward authorities

Hazards: Man-made non-intentional hazards or emergency situations, Man-made intentional hazards

Disaster Phases: Prevention

Types of Actors Concerned: Non-active citizens

Recommendations:

• Engage in activities and develop strategies aiming to improve trust between citizens and authorities