[en] Nuclear power has, for many years, played a vital role in helping the European Union meet its energy and environmental objectives. Today, however, power station construction programmes are at a virtual standstill, with little or no prospect of a restart in the foreseeable future; some member states have, in fact, taken the decision to phase out nuclear when plants currently operating reach the end of their life, if not before. Against this unpromising background, the nuclear industry is taking vigorous steps to improve its competitiveness, ensure the safety of nuclear plants operating in parts of East Europe, win business in a challenging export market and develop new technology that will build on already high standards of plant performance and safety. In reviewing the situation, the author touches upon the factors and circumstances that are likely to impact favourably or unfavourably on the industry's efforts to secure its long-term future and ends by summing up the prospects for success. (author)