Dmitry Erokhin, Research Scholar at the IIASA Cooperation and Transformative Governance (CAT) Research Group, presented a study titled “Analysis of Online Public Discourse and Sentiment during Nuclear Emergencies: A Case Study of YouTube Comments” conducted in collaboration with Nadejda Komendantova, Leader of the IIASA CAT Research Group, at the International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programs 2025, organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

On June 29, Dmitry Erokhin, Research Scholar at the IIASA Cooperation and Transformative Governance (CAT) Research Group, presented a study titled “Analysis of Online Public Discourse and Sentiment during Nuclear Emergencies: A Case Study of YouTube Comments” conducted in collaboration with Nadejda Komendantova, Leader of the IIASA CAT Research Group, at the International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programs 2025, organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The presentation focused on the use of discourse and emotion analysis methodologies to understand public sentiment and online discussions following nuclear incidents. By systematically analyzing social media data, this joint study uncovers what users are thinking, the key topics under discussion, the range and intensity of emotions expressed, and the prevalence and nature of misinformation circulating within these conversations. The research highlights the crucial role of real-time analysis in managing public perceptions and mitigating the spread of misinformation during sensitive events.

Reflecting on the conference, Dmitry Erokhin remarked on the breadth of perspectives and the forward-looking discussions about the future and prospects of nuclear power. The event provided a valuable platform to exchange ideas and deepen understanding of stakeholder engagement in the evolving energy landscape.

To read more on the International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programmes click here.

Dmitry Erokhin presenting at the International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programmes. © IAEA

Dmitry Erokhin presenting at the International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programmes.  

News

dreamstime_l_17712570

16 October 2026

Getting back on track to reduce methane emissions

A new study, led by IIASA researchers and coauthored by UNEP colleagues, finds that if governments fully implement their methane reduction plans, they could reduce global emissions by 11% between 2020 and 2030. This would reverse the current trend of increasing methane emissions, but would not be sufficient to achieve the goal of the Global Methane Pledge. 
Dreamstime_171340883

01 October 2026

Where the waters meet: Connecting global limits and local water management

Human activity and climate change are putting growing pressure on water resources, disrupting the predictability of the water cycle, and changing the availability and quality of freshwater. IIASA researchers and partners have developed a new framework for guiding water management and planning at the river-basin level, derived from the existing Global Water Planetary Boundary.
Austrian Parliament Building, historic landmark in Vienna

10 September 2026

Emotionalization of Political Discourse: IIASA Researcher Presents Study at the Day of Parliamentary Research 2026

Dmitry Erokhin, PhD, Research Scholar at IIASA, presents a poster on the emotionalization of political discourse at the Day of Parliamentary Research 2026 at the Austrian Parliament. His study analyzes public comments on YouTube videos related to major Austrian political parties and applies sentiment and topic analysis to examine how emotions, facts, polarization, and toxicity shape online political debate. The findings provide insights into how digital media influences public perceptions of parties and democratic processes, and how parliaments can better respond to emotionally charged political communication.