1. ¹Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgium
2. ²SCK-CEN Belgian Nuclear Research Center, Mol, Belgium

Correspondence: F Hardeman, SCK-CEN Belgian Nuclear Research Center, Boeretang200, Mol B-2400, Belgium. E-mail: fhardema@sckcen.be

^†On leave from IFIN-HH, National Institute for Physics and Nuclear Engineering, Bucharest, Romania.

Received March 2006; Accepted September 2006; Published online 6 December 2006.

Abstract

In order to accommodate the use of multi-criteria decision-aid tools for nuclear crisis management in the Belgian context, a stakeholder process was carried out, aiming to add in stakeholders' values and practical knowledge in the models developed for decision support. The main steps are described in this paper, following a case study concerning the management of contaminated milk. We argue in favour of a systematic interaction with relevant stakeholders in all phases of the decision analysis. Some difficulties arising from the complexity of the problem itself, as well as from the different points of view of relevant stakeholders are illustrated and discussed. Suggestions are given for resolving this in a decision-aid framework and an example is provided throughout the paper for a better understanding of the issues involved.