Geophysical, geological and geochemical data obtained at active volcanoes must be evaluated in terms of potential hazards. Quantitative information on hazards is critical as a volcano develops from a state of dormancy through unrest to possible eruption.There are several recent examples of volcanic re-activation after long repose intervals culminating in explosive eruption, but non-eruptive behavior is equally documented. The dilemma scientists are confronted with is how to assess future behavior and to forecast the likelihood and nature of an eruption at a (reawakening) volcano, when critical data from previous activity is missing. Equally important is the question, how limited data and information is employed to effectively mitigate risk from hazardous phenomenon. How can this link be strengthened? What is needed to improve our risk mitigation capabilities? Which are critical parameters during monitoring programs that help assess the state of a volcano? The aim of this session is to provide answers to these questions and to sample the current state-of-the-art of the link between the hard physical sciences and the applied hazard assessment and risk mitigation industry. We welcome contributions from both fundamental research of volcanic phenomena as well as from applied hazard assessment and particularly invite contributions presenting sociological perspectives of volcanic disaster preparedness and mitigation.