BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//The EU Non-Proliferation Consortium - ECPv6.15.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://nonproliferation.eu X-WR-CALDESC:Events for The EU Non-Proliferation Consortium REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/Paris BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20120325T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20121028T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20130331T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20131027T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20140330T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20141026T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20150329T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20151025T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20160327T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20161030T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20170326T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20171029T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20180325T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20181028T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20190331T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20191027T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20200329T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20201025T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20210328T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20211031T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20220327T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20221030T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20230326T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20231029T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20240331T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20241027T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20250330T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20251026T010000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20240510T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20240510T170000 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20240521T094153Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240527T101152Z UID:13671-1715328000-1715360400@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme – 3rd Edition Final Meeting DESCRIPTION:Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme – 3rd Edition Final Meeting\nThe VCDNP and IAI convened the final meeting of the third edition of their Mentorship Programme for young women in non-proliferation and disarmament. \nParticipants of the final meeting of the third edition of the Mentorship Programme\nOn 10 May 2024\, the VCDNP and the International Affairs Institute (IAI) organised the final meeting of the third edition of the Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme. \nThis year\, the programme paired 22 driven young women with 22 established experts in the field. These pairs engaged in a mentoring relationship that included regular videoconferencing sessions\, among other activities. The programme also gave participants the opportunity to attend relevant conferences and outreach events on non-proliferation\, disarmament\, arms control\, and related topics\, including the EUNPDC Annual Conference and Next Generation Workshop. \nThe Mentorship Programme has also provided networking and career development opportunities through seminars\, social events\, and other activities. The Mentorship Programme is part of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative under the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium. \n  \n“The mentorship programme definitely is a unique opportunity for young female professionals or students to gain a foothold in the world of disarmament and non-proliferation. Not only can you learn from the experiences of an experienced and established mentor in the field\, but you also get to connect with young like-minded colleagues who are also at the start of their career. I can definitely recommend it as the connections you are able to make are extremely valuable – both in the professional and the private sphere!”\n–Mentee \nThe final meeting was opened by Elena K. Sokova\, VCDNP Executive Director\, and Stephan Klement\, Special Envoy for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation and Disarmament at the European External Action Service (EEAS). \nElena K. Sokova and Stephan Klement\n\nThe event was held online and divided into three sessions. \nThe first session was dedicated to mentees’ presentations and moderated by Paola Tessari (IAI). Several mentees presented the results of their research conducted during the Mentorship Programme. The presentations addressed issues related to arms control\, disarmament\, and non-proliferation\, including regional challenges\, chemical\, biological\, radiological\, and nuclear (CBRN) threats\, military expenditure and data collection\, as well as the nexus between climate change and disarmament. \nPresentations were delivered by: \n\nLara Maria Guedes\, Intern at Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)\nKsenija Trajkovska\, Analyst at Fenix Insight LTD\nClara Wend\, Student at Technical University Vienna\nBeatrice Aubert\, Trainee at EEAS\n\n  \n“I really like the concept of this Programme and how refreshing it felt to coach a mentee/someone who is hopeful and positive about the field and I learned a lot too as a mentor!”\n–Mentor \nThe second panel focused on providing career advice and featured a presentation by Elizabeth Bone\, Career and Academic Advisor at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. Ms. Bone shared helpful tips when searching for a job and offered guidance for dealing with rejection and building resilience. The panel was moderated by Manuel Herrera (IAI). \nElizabeth Bone’s presentation\n\n  \n“The many opportunities provided by the mentorship programme have definitely deepened my understanding of arms control and non-proliferation. Especially the in-person conference in December 2023 was a particularly enriching experience. I also enjoyed both the issue-related and skill-building opportunities that took place online”\n–Mentee \nThe last panel was devoted to a comprehensive evaluation of the Programme to collect feedback from participants and brainstorm improvements for future editions. The open discussion was moderated by Federica Dall’Arche (VCDNP). URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/13671/ CATEGORIES:Young Women in non-proliferation and disarmament Mentorship Programme ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/particiuants-YWNGI-final-meeting.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240115 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240116 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20240408T154413Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240408T154943Z UID:13608-1705276800-1705363199@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Open Source Intelligence and Public Speaking Workshops: Skill Building opportunities for YWNGI Mentorship Programme participants DESCRIPTION:Between January and April 2024\, the participants of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI) Mentorship Programme\, an initiative the VCDNP created in cooperation with IAI and the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium\, joined a series of skill-building workshops designed to improve their research skills and their ability to retrieve and assess open source information\, as well as public speaking skills and their ability to interact with different audiences. \nThe first workshop\, titled “Introduction to OSINT for Nuclear Professionals” was organised over two days and delivered by Marcy Fowler\, Research and Analysis Manager at Open Nuclear Network (ONN). It also featured a case study by Elin Bergner\, former YWNGI mentee and now Research Assistant at ONN. \n \nThe workshop addressed the basics of open-source intelligence (OSINT) and its application by international organisations\, NGOs\, and governments. It covered in detail media\, image\, and video analysis as a tool to conduct fact-checking activities and dispel false information. \nA part of the discussion was also devoted to artificial intelligence and the future of OSINT. Elin Berger presented the latest technological advancements\, highlighting the challenges posed by the intersection between OSINT and AI as well as the unintended consequences of exposing information\, including privacy concerns\, social engineering\, information warfare\, security risks\, and ethical dilemmas. \n  \nThe second capacity-building activity\, titled “Mindful Communication” was organised as a series of three workshops delivered by Scott Morgan\, a leadership and communication coach with over 30 years of experience. \nThrough tailored examples and exercises\, the interactive workshops covered the basics of effective public speaking\, providing participants with useful tips on how to deliver academic presentations\, how to participate in panel discussions (both as moderator and as a panelist)\, and how to prepare for and deliver media interviews. Participants were challenged to think outside the box\, react to ad-hoc and improvised prompts\, and to test their ways of communicating. \n  \n More information: \nAgenda of the outreach event  \nThe EUNPDC Consortium and its work \nAdditional Opportunities for the Next Generation \nThe YWNGI is possible thanks to the generous support of the European Union and aims to engage the next generation and raise awareness on non-proliferation\, disarmament and arms control issues. The VCDNP and IAI thank the University of Innsbruck for hosting the event. \n  URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/open-source-intelligence-and-public-speaking-workshops-skill-building-opportunities-for-ywngi-mentorship-programme-participants/ CATEGORIES:Young Women and Next Generation Initiative END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20231018 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20231019 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20231025T093152Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231025T093152Z UID:13226-1697587200-1697673599@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:The Nuclear Dimensions of the War against Ukraine DESCRIPTION:On 18 October 2023\, the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) and the International Affairs Institute (IAI) organised an outreach event to the University of Innsbruck. The activity was organized under the framework of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI)\, an effort of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC) to engage the next generation and raise awareness on non-proliferation\, disarmament and arms control issues. \nTitled “The Nuclear Dimensions of the War against Ukraine”\, the event included two panels. \nThe first panel discussion of the event was dedicated to the current geopolitical situation in Europe and to nuclear risks associated with the war against Ukraine\, including potential uses of nuclear weapons\, risks related to the safety and security of nuclear facilities\, as well as the impact of the war on nuclear arms control and disarmament. \nSpeakers included (in order of appearance): \n\nEttore Greco\, Executive Vice President\, IAI\, who examined the origins of the war\, discussing the overall geopolitical environment and challenges that led to the Russian invasion in February 2022;\n\n  \n\n Nikolai Sokov\, Senior Fellow\, VCDNP\, who discussed the nuclear dimension of the war\, including the potential use of nuclear weapons\, risks of escalation\, as well as the impact that the war is generating on arms control and Russia-West relations more broadly;\n\n  \n\nElena Sokova\, Executive Director\, VCDNP\, who drew attention to the risks related to nuclear safety and security of nuclear facilities\, including the occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.\n\n \n  \n\nThe second panel of the event was dedicated to the work of the EUNPDC and to opportunities for young women and the next generation in the arms control\, non-proliferation and disarmament field. \nThe panel featured (in order of appearance): \n\nManuel Herrera\, Senior Researcher\, IAI\, who provided an overview of the EUNPD Consortium and its work\, including specific activities organised by each member of the Consortium;\n\n  \n\nFederica Dall’Arche\, Senior Research Associate\, VCDNP\, who discussed opportunities in the field available for young students and practitioners\, including those offered by the EUNPDC such as internships\, e-learning courses\, and the YWNGI mentorship programme;\n\n \nFrom the left: Manuel Herrera\, Martin Senn\, Federica Dall’Arche \nBoth panels were moderated by Martin Senn\, Professor at the University of Innsbruck. \n  \nMore information: \nAgenda of the outreach event  \nThe EUNPDC Consortium and its work \nAdditional Opportunities for the Next Generation \nThe YWNGI is possible thanks to the generous support of the European Union and aims to engage the next generation and raise awareness on non-proliferation\, disarmament and arms control issues. The VCDNP and IAI thank the University of Innsbruck for hosting the event. \n  URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/the-nuclear-dimensions-of-the-war-against-ukraine/ CATEGORIES:Young Women and Next Generation Initiative END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20230920T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20230920T170000 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20230920T095944Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240527T101254Z UID:13693-1695196800-1695229200@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Launch of the 2023 Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme DESCRIPTION:Launch of the 2023 Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme\nOn 20 September 2023\, the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) and the International Affairs Institute (IAI)\, as part of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI)\, launched the 3rd edition of Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (YWNPD) Mentorship Programme. \nThe Mentorship Programme\, established in 2021 and organized in the framework of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC)\, pairs 20 young women (mentees)\, carefully chosen through a highly competitive selection process\, with well-established experts (mentors) to engage in a mentoring relationship that envisions\, among other things\, regular video or in-person meetings. Mentees are also expected to attend conferences\, seminars\, social events\, and other activities\, in order to be exposed to networking and career opportunities. \n \nParticipants of the launch event \nThe launch event was opened by the VCDNP Executive Director\, Elena Sokova\, and IAI Executive Vice-President\, Ettore Greco\, who welcomed the new cohort and congratulated new mentees for having been selected among over hundreds of very strong applications. \nThree former mentees – Selma Mustafić\, Elif Erginyavuz\, and Kincső Vizi – and one former (and current) mentor – Rebecca Jovin – shared their personal experience during the previous editions of the programme. \n \n  \nFederica Dall’Arche\, Senior Research Associate at the VCDNP and Paola Tessari\, Senior Researcher at IAI\, offered an overview of the programme\, discussing expectations and opportunities for both mentors and mentees as well as the upcoming activities. Karolina Proprentner\, Office and Events Manager at the VCDNP\, introduced the new cohort to the spotlight campaign\, while Manuel Herrera\, Senior Researcher at IAI\, shared information about the upcoming EUNPDC Annual Conference\, which mentors and mentees are invited to attend. \nA round of introductions of all participants allowed the organizers\, mentors\, and mentees to get to know each other better. \nThe VCDNP and IAI look forward to working with this bright and motivated cohort of mentees and deeply thank the EU for funding this project as well as returning and new mentors for joining the 2023 edition of the programme. \nThe Agenda of the event can be found here! \n  URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/launch-of-the-2023-young-women-in-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-mentorship-programme/ CATEGORIES:Young Women in non-proliferation and disarmament Mentorship Programme ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Launch-YWNGI-3rd-eition.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20230515T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20230515T170000 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20230515T114136Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240527T114420Z UID:13702-1684137600-1684170000@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Young Women and Next Generation Initiative in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme – 2nd Edition Final Meeting DESCRIPTION:Young Women and Next Generation Initiative in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme – 2nd Edition Final Meeting\n\nOn 15 May 2023\, the VCDNP and the International Affairs Institute (IAI) organised the final meeting of the second edition of the Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme. \nThe Programme pairs 20 driven young females with 20 well-established experts in the field over the course of nine months and gives mentees the opportunity to attend relevant conferences and outreach events on non-proliferation\, disarmament\, arms control\, and related topics\, including the EUNPDC Annual Conference and Next Generation Workshop. The Programme has also provided networking and career development opportunities through seminars\, social events\, and other activities. The Mentorship Programme is part of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative under the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium. \n“I think the programme is a great initiative. It encouraged me to study more non-proliferation\, disarmament\, and gender issues\, and it provided me with amazing connections with mentees and mentors. The programme taught me good lessons\, it helped me improve many of my skills and now I intend to deepen my studies into a Master’s in this field.” \n2023 Mentee \nThe final meeting was opened by Stefan Tressing\, Deputy Head of the Division for Disarmament\, Non-Proliferation and Arms Export Control at the European External Action Service (EEAS) and Elena Sokova\, VCDNP Executive Director. \n\n\nStefan Tressing (EEAS) delivering opening remarks\n\nThe event was held online and divided into three sessions. \nThe first session was dedicated to mentees’ presentations and moderated by Paola Tessari (IAI). Selected mentees presented their work and research prepared over the course of the Mentorship Programme. The presentations covered issues related to arms control\, disarmament\, and non-proliferation\, such as autonomous weapon systems\, non-traditional security and nuclear risk\, diversity in non-proliferation and disarmament\, economic sanctions from a gender perspective\, and gender and race in international security. \n\n\nPresentation by Elin Bergner (Open Nuclear Network)\n\nPresentations were delivered by: \n\nInsaf Senouci (Sciences Po Grenoble)\nStephanie Verlaan (EuropeanUniversity Viadrina)\nVeerle Moyson (UNODA Vienna Office)\nJennet Charyyeva (Bilkent University)\nAmanda Pereira (Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo)\nElin Bergner (Open Nuclear Network)\nNatalina Popat (Oxford University)\nIrene Palomo (European Research Council Executive Agency – ERCEA)\n\n\n\nPresentation by Jennet Charyyeva (Bilkent University)\n\n“I really like the concept of this Programme and how refreshing it felt to coach a mentee/someone who is hopeful and positive about the field and I learned a lot too as a mentor!” \n2023 Mentor \n\nSecond panel discussion\n\nThe second panel focused on providing career advice and featured a presentation by Elizabeth Bone\, Career and Academic Advisor at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. Ms. Bone shared helpful tips when searching for a job and offered guidelines for dealing with rejection and building resilience. The panel was moderated by Manuel Herrera (IAI). \n\n\nPresentation by Elizabeth Bone (MIIS)\n\n“I feel encouraged knowing there are many other young women working on the same path as me. It is nice to hear you’re not alone. I received good guidance and explanations and insights which allowed me to reflect on my career path and possible developments\, outcomes and combinations. This is very important.” \n2023 Mentee \nThe last panel was devoted to a comprehensive evaluation of the programme to collect feedback from participants and brainstorm improvements for future editions. The open discussion was moderated by Federica Dall’Arche (VCDNP). \nClosing remarks were delivered by Sybille Bauer (SIPRI and Chair of the EUNPD Consortium). URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/young-women-and-next-generation-initiative-in-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-mentorship-programme-2nd-edition-final-meeting/ CATEGORIES:Young Women in non-proliferation and disarmament Mentorship Programme ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/final-meeting-YWNGI-mentorship-programme-2022.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230502 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230506 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20230321T090634Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230321T091929Z UID:12704-1682985600-1683331199@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:May 2023\, WMD Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Pathways: intensive online introductory course for students of nuclear and aerospace engineering disciplines DESCRIPTION:SIPRI and the European Union Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC) invite graduate and postgraduate students of nuclear and aerospace engineering disciplines to apply for an intensive online introductory course on the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD)\, mechanisms to control their further spread and pathways to disarmament. The course will take place online\, during four half-days on 2–5 May 2023\, 14:00 to 18:00 Central European Summer Time (CEST). \nThe course will cover the fundamentals of biological\, chemical and nuclear weapons\, as well as of missiles and other means of WMD delivery; threats associated with the military use of WMD and potential terrorist uses of chemical\, biological\, radioactive and nuclear (CBRN) material (i.e. CBRN terrorism); arms control treaties; WMD-free zones; non-proliferation treaties and means of their verification; export controls; and mechanisms aimed at achieving disarmament. \nThe course will also discuss the role of the nuclear and aerospace industries in preventing the spread and use of nuclear weapons. The course will be instructed by renowned experts on WMD non-proliferation\, arms control\, disarmament\, export controls\, verification and related subjects from SIPRI\, other European research centres\, think tanks and international organizations. \n\n  \nEligibility and application \nThe course is open to all students currently enrolled in a university and pursuing a graduate or postgraduate degree in any nuclear or aerospace engineering discipline. Applications from qualified women and under-represented communities are encouraged. \nThe language of instruction is English. There is no tuition fee. The deadline for applications is 16 April 2023. As space is limited\, we recommend that applications are submitted as early as possible. Participants will be given access to preparatory materials. \nApplications should be submitted in English via SIPRI’s electronic application system to be eligible. Please access the form via the ‘apply’ button at the end of this page. \nPlease note that you will be asked to upload a cover letter\, a curriculum vitae\, a record of courses taken to date and grades received as well as a letter confirming your enrolment in a graduate/postgraduate programme. \nSelections will be finalized by 21 April 2023\, and applicants will be informed thereafter. \nAll inquiries about the course should be directed to Vitaly Fedchenko\, Senior Researcher with the SIPRI Weapons of Mass Destruction Programme. \n  \nContact person  \nVitaly Fedchenko\, Senior Researcher : fedchenko@sipri.org URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/may-2023-wmd-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-pathways-intensive-online-introductory-course-for-students-of-nuclear-and-aerospace-engineering-disciplines/ CATEGORIES:Education Programmes,Proliferation Awareness Courses END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230421 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230422 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20230421T080039Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230428T103249Z UID:12783-1682035200-1682121599@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:The War in Ukraine\, Authoritarian Regimes and Opportunities for the Next Generation in Non-Proliferation: VCDNP and PRCP joint event at the Charles University of Prague DESCRIPTION:  \n \nThe War in Ukraine\, Authoritarian Regimes and Opportunities for the Next Generation in Non-Proliferation: VCDNP and PRCP joint event at the Charles University of Prague \nOn 21 April 2023\, the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) joined the Peace Research Center Prague (PRCP) in the organization of the PRCP Annual Conference at the Charles University\, Faculty of Law. \nThe VCDNP contributed to the event as part of its outreach activity to European universities under the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI). The YWNGI was jointly established by the VCDNP and the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI) and within the framework of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC) in an effort to engage the next generation in non-proliferation\, disarmament and arms control. \n  \nThe first panel of the event was dedicated to the War in Ukraine. Speakers provided an assessment one year after the start of the conflict\, discussing current developments\, the military strategies of both sides\, as well as possible future scenarios. The panel was moderated by Michal Smetana (PRCP) and included the following speakers: \n\nSir Lawrence Freedman (King’s College London)\nNina Tannenwald (Brown University)\nHarald Müller (Peace Research Institute Frankfurt/PRCP)\nHanna Notte (VCDNP)\n\n \nFrom the left: Michal Smetana\, Sir Lawrence Freedman\, Nina Tannenwald\, Hanna Notte and  Harald Müller \n  \nThe second panel\, dedicated to authoritarian regimes in the Middle East and North Africa\, featured: \n\nNoura Wahby (American University in Cairo)\nTereza Jermanová (PRCP)\nJakub Koláček (Charles University)\n\nThe panel was moderated by Jan Daniel (PRCP) and explored authoritarian practices as well as ways in which the undemocratic rule is challenged by citizens and various movements. \n \nFrom the left: Jan Daniel\, Noura Wahby\, Jakub Koláček\, and Tereza JermanovÁ \n  \nThe third panel was dedicated to the work of the EUNPDC and to opportunities for young women and the next generation in the arms control\, non-proliferation and disarmament field. The panel featured: \n\nPaola Tessari (IAI)\nFederica Dall’Arche (VCDNP)\n\n \nFrom the left: Paola Tessari and Federica Dall’Arche \n  \nHarald Müller\, one of the original co-founder of the EUNPD Consortium\, also contributed to the panel\, sharing his experience in establishing the Consortium. \n \nHarald Müller talking about the EUNPD Consortium \n \nAll panels were followed by Q&A sessions. \nThe presentation of the event is available on : The EUNPD Consortium and its work\n \nFor further informations on Youth opportunities linked with the consortium activities : Additional Opportunities for the Next Generation \nFor more information\, please refer to the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative website or to the Event Page URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/the-war-in-ukraine-authoritarian-regimes-and-opportunities-for-the-next-generation-in-non-proliferation-vcdnp-and-prcp-joint-event-at-the-charles-university-of-prague/ CATEGORIES:Education Programmes,Young Women and Next Generation Initiative END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20230316T170000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20230316T180000 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20230301T135100Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230301T135100Z UID:12700-1678986000-1678989600@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Nuclear Weapons and Artificial Intelligence: Understanding the Nexus and Mitigating Risks DESCRIPTION:Nuclear Weapons and Artificial Intelligence: Understanding the Nexus and Mitigating Risks\n\n\nThe Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non‑Proliferation (VCDNP) and the International Affairs Institute (IAI) in the framework of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI) will hold a public webinar entitled: “Nuclear Weapons and Artificial Intelligence: Understanding the Nexus and Mitigating Risks”. The meeting will take place on Zoom on 16 March 2023\, from 17:00 to 18:00 (CET). \nThe event will feature Marina Favaro\, Senior Policy Analyst at Anthropic. \nThe panellist will focus on the overlap between artificial intelligence and the nuclear domain\, as well as the role for the private sector in developing standards and norms for AI. \nThe event is aimed\, in particular\, at students and young specialists interested in learning more about the field of arms control\, non-proliferation and disarmament\, but also open to the general public. \nThe working language will be English. \nSpeaker: \n\nMarina Favaro\, Senior Policy Analyst\, Anthropic\n\nVCDNP Executive Director Elena K. Sokova will offer welcome remarks and moderate the event. \nWe kindly ask you to RSVP using the online registration form below. \nThe opinions/views expressed by the speaker in this event do not necessarily reflect the opinions/views of the VCDNP. \n\nRegistration and Questions\nWe kindly ask you to RSVP using the online registration form. \nShould you have any questions\, please direct your inquiries to events@vcdnp.org or call VCDNP at +43-1-236-94-82. In case you have troubles accessing the online registration form\, please email events@vcdnp.org. URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/nuclear-weapons-and-artificial-intelligence-understanding-the-nexus-and-mitigating-risks/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Education Programmes,Young Women and Next Generation Initiative END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230116 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230117 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20230123T140520Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231129T104126Z UID:12496-1673827200-1673913599@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Opportunities\, Threats and Proliferation Challenges deriving from Bio-Technology and Bio-Engineering DESCRIPTION:On 16 January 2023\, as part of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI)\, the International Affairs Institute (IAI) and the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) with the support of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium\, organized a public webinar focused on the opportunities\, threats and proliferation challenges deriving from bio-technology and bio-engineering.  The event also provided tips and advice for working in the field of biological weapons non-proliferation and peaceful uses of bio-technology. \nThe webinar\, open to the public but particularly intended for students and young specialists \, featured remarks from: \n\nDr Angela Kane\, former UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs and Senior Fellow at the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) and Senior Adviser at the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI);\nDr Filippa Lentzos\, Associate Professor in Science & International Security at King’s College London; and\nDr James Revill\, Head of the WMD and Space Security Programmes at the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR).\n\nThe event was opened by Ettore Greco\, Executive Vice-President of the IAI\, and moderated by Federica Dall’Arche\, Senior Research Associate at the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP). It was attended by over 70 participants from different regions of the world. \nIn his opening speech\, Ettore Greco gave an overview of the purpose and scope of YWNGI\, highlighting in particular how\, through the organization of workshops\, public webinars\, and a mentoring programme for young women\, the Initiative advances the efforts of the EUNPD Consortium in engaging the next generation in non-proliferation\, disarmament and arms control discussions. The panellists talked about the challenges and risks associated with biological agents and the rapid advances in biotechnology. In particular\, Dr. Kane discussed the global impact of the spread of biological agents given their potential weaponization and provided an overview of the role of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) in countering such spread. Dr Lentzos continued the discussion by illustrating the main outcomes of the Ninth BWC Review Conference\, held in Geneva in November and December 2022\, assessing prospects for the future of the regime. Dr. Revill explored the convergence between biological agents\, artificial intelligence and biosecurity/bio-technology and bio-engineering. \nSpeakers also illustrated career opportunities in the field of biological non-proliferation and disarmament. \n \nFrom the top left: Ettore Greco\, Federica Dall’Arche\, Dr. Angela Kane\, Dr. Filippa Lentzos\, Dr. James Revill \nThe discussion was followed by a Q&A session\, which covered a wide-spectrum of topics\, ranging from Covid-19 to risk-assessment scenarios passing through the role of non-state actors. \nA full recording of the event can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgBdPkKm7tQ URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/opportunities-threats-and-proliferation-challenges-deriving-from-bio-technology-and-bio-engineering/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Education Programmes,Young Women and Next Generation Initiative ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/YWNGI-Report-illustration.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221206 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221209 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20230321T091537Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230321T091537Z UID:12706-1670284800-1670543999@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:December 2022\, SIPRI and EUNPDC co-host intensive course on ‘WMD Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Pathways’ DESCRIPTION:On 6–8 December 2022\, SIPRI and the European Union Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC) hosted an intensive introductory course on the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD)\, mechanisms to control their further spread and pathways to disarmament. \nHeld in Stockholm\, the course brought together 19 international graduate and postgraduate students of engineering disciplines. This course was also a networking opportunity for the next generation of academics\, researchers and policymakers in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation. Dr Sibylle Bauer\, Director of Studies\, Armament and Disarmament\, and Vitaly Fedchenko\, Senior Researcher with the SIPRI Weapons of Mass Destruction Programme\, delivered welcoming remarks for the programme.Participants were trained by leading experts in the field of WMD non-proliferation\, arms control\, disarmament\, nuclear security\, forensics\, export controls\, verification and related subjects from SIPRI\, as well other European and United States research centres\, think tanks and international organizations. \nParticipants engaged in a three-day intensive programme of lectures and discussions covering the fundamentals of biological\, chemical and nuclear weapons\, as well as of missiles and other means of WMD delivery; threats associated with the military use of WMD and potential terrorist uses of chemical\, biological\, radioactive and nuclear (CBRN) material (i.e. CBRN terrorism); arms control treaties; WMD-free zones; non-proliferation treaties and means of their verification; export controls; and mechanisms aimed at achieving disarmament. The course also examined the impact of new and emerging technologies\, and the role of the engineering industry in preventing the spread and use of nuclear weapons. \nSIPRI and the EUNPDC will continue to develop courses of this kind and host them twice a year. \n\n\n\n\nContact : Vitaly Fedchenko URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/december-2022-sipri-and-eunpdc-co-host-intensive-course-on-wmd-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-pathways/ CATEGORIES:Education Programmes,Proliferation Awareness Courses END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20221019T150000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20221019T164500 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20221014T143020Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221014T143020Z UID:12183-1666191600-1666197900@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Engagement Opportunities in Arms Control\, Disarmament and Non-Proliferation for Young Professionals and Students DESCRIPTION:Loading...\n \n \n \n \n \n Taking too long?\n \n \n Reload document \n |\n \n Open in new tab \n \n \n \n Download URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/engagement-opportunities/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Education Programmes,Young Women and Next Generation Initiative ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/YWNGI-19-oct.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20220930T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20220930T170000 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20220930T091022Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T100920Z UID:12119-1664524800-1664557200@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:International Security\, Nuclear Weapons and the War in Ukraine DESCRIPTION:10 October 2022\, 15:00 – 17:00 \nVia Gabriello Chiabrera 199\, Roma sala delle Lauree \n \n \n \n \n \n Loading...\n \n \n \n \n \n Taking too long?\n \n \n Reload document \n |\n \n Open in new tab \n \n \n \n Download \nHybrid Format \nThe Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) and the International Affairs Institute (IAI)\, in cooperation with the University of Roma Tre\, will hold a 2-hour event to discuss arms control\, non-proliferation and disarmament and the impact of the war in Ukraine on these issues. \nThe event will be held on Monday\, 10 October 2022 from 15:00 to 17:00 Central European Summer Time (CEST)\, both in-person at the faculty of Political Science of Roma Tre (via Gabriello Chiabrera 199) and online via Microsoft Teams. \nYou are invited to join VCDNP and IAI experts to discuss the current geopolitical landscape\, with a focus on the impact of the war in Ukraine\, assess the threat of nuclear weapons\, including their potential use\,  the state of the non-proliferation regime and disarmament efforts. The event will also include an overview of the work of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC)\, and information on opportunities offered by fellowships\, internships\, and other initiatives. \nSpeakers include Ettore Greco and Manuel Herrera from IAI\, Hanna Notte and Federica Dall’Arche from VCDNP\, and professors Marilena Gala and Leopoldo Nuti from Roma Tre. A tentative agenda can be seen below. \nThe event can be joined by clicking on this link \nThe VCDNP and IAI thank the University of Roma Tre for hosting the event. The event is funded by the European Union in the framework of the EUNPDC and the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative. \n  \nAgenda\n15:00   International Security\, Nuclear Weapons and the War in The Ukraine \nWelcome Address and Moderation \nMarilena Gala\, Associate Professor\, Roma Tre University \nPanelists \nEttore Greco\, Executive Vice President\, International Affairs Institute\, Rome \nHanna Notte\, Senior Research Associate\, Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation \nLeopoldo Nuti\, Professor\, Roma Tre University \nQ&A \n16:15   Break \n16:25   The EUNPD Consortium and Other Initiatives and Opportunities \nModeration \nLeopoldo Nuti\, Professor\, Roma Tre University \n  \nPanelists \nFederica Dall’Arche\, Senior Research Associate\, Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation \nManuel Herrera\, Researcher\, International Affairs Institute\, Rome\,. \n  \nQ&A \n  \n17:00   Meeting Ends URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/international-security-nuclear-weapons-and-the-war-in-ukraine/ CATEGORIES:Education Programmes,Young Women and Next Generation Initiative ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Capture-decran-2022-09-30-120958.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20220919T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20220919T170000 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20240527T114052Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240527T114119Z UID:13699-1663574400-1663606800@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Launch of the 2022 Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme DESCRIPTION:Launch of the 2022 Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme\nOn 19 September 2022\, the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) and the International Affairs Institute (IAI)\, as part of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI)\, launched the 2nd edition of Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (YWNPD) Mentorship Programme. \nThe Mentorship Programme\, established in 2021 and organized in the framework of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC)\, pairs 20 young women (mentees)\, carefully chosen through a highly competitive selection process\, with well-established experts (mentors) to engage in a mentoring relationship that envisions\, among other things\, regular video or in-person meetings. Mentees are also expected to attend conferences\, seminars\, social events\, and other activities\, in order to be exposed to networking and career opportunities. \nParticipants of the Launch Event\nThe launch event was opened by the VCDNP Executive Director\, Elena Sokova\, the IAI Executive Vice-President\, Ettore Greco\, and the EUNPDC Chair\, Sibylle Bauer who welcomed the new cohort and congratulated new mentees for having been selected among over 300 very strong applications. \nVCDNP Executive Director\, Elena Sokova\, IAI Executive Vice-President\, Ettore Greco\, and EUNPDC Chair\, Sibylle Bauer\nThree former mentees – Akanshya Gurung\, Emily Faux\, and Virginia Bertuzzi – shared their personal experience during the previous edition of the programme. \nAkanshya Gurung noted how the mentorship programme was valuable to her as it challenged the assumption that young women have no place in discussing nuclear weapons\, arms control\, non-proliferation and disarmament. She also shared how the programme helped her build a network of likeminded\, passionate and motivated people\, suggesting the new cohort not to look at the programme as just another item to put on their resumes but as a unique process for making connections and create opportunities. \nEmily Faux noted that the mentorship programme\, proved to be very useful for her Ph.D. studies\, extracurricular research activities\, and essay-writing competition. Ms. Faux praised the professionalism of the VCDNP and IAI noting that  “whenever an issue arose\, they were always there to help resolve them”. \nFor Virginia Bertuzzi\, the programme was a “milestone exercise”. Ms Bertuzzi noted that her cohort of mentees became her family and helped her to stay motivated and not to lose hope even in difficult times. Now\, they all look forward to the opportunity to meet again because\, she said: “Once mentee\, always mentee”. She encouraged the new cohort to take advantage of the opportunity and to ask for help given that having a mentor\, she said\, is priceless. \nAkanshya Gurung\, Emily Faux\, and Virginia Bertuzzi\, mentees of the 1st edition of the mentorship programme\nFederica Dall’Arche\, Senior Research Associate at the VCDNP and Paola Tessari\, Researcher at the IAI\, offered an overview of the programme\, discussing expectations and opportunities for both mentors and mentees as well as the upcoming activities. A round of introductions of all participants followed\, allowing the organizers\, mentors\, and mentees to get to know each other better. \nMeet and Greet Session during the Launch Event\nThe VCDNP and IAI look forward to working with this bright and motivated cohort of mentees and deeply thank returning and new mentors in the 2022 Programme. URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/launch-of-the-2022-young-women-in-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-mentorship-programme/ CATEGORIES:Young Women in non-proliferation and disarmament Mentorship Programme ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/launch-mentorship-programme-2022.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20220428T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20220429T180000 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20220512T104850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220512T112106Z UID:11820-1651172400-1651255200@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Young Women and Next Generation Initiative in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme – 1st Edition Final Meeting DESCRIPTION:Loading...\n \n \n \n \n \n Taking too long?\n \n \n Reload document \n |\n \n Open in new tab \n \n \n \n Download \n  \nOn 28-29 April 2022\, as part of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI)\, the International Affairs Institute (IAI) and the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP)\, with the support of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium\, organized the final meeting of the 1st  edition of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme \, an initiative aimed to pair successful candidates (mentees) with well-established experts (mentors) and engage in a mentoring relationship. During this last year\, Mentees had the opportunity to attend relevant conferences and outreach events on non-proliferation\, disarmament\, arms control and related topics\, including the EUNPDC Annual Conference and the Next Generation Workshop. Networking and career opportunities have been also facilitated through seminars\, social events and other activities. \n  \nPrevious events can be found here. \n  \nThe event was divided into three thematic panels. \nThe first panel addressed current and emerging challenges and opportunities in arms control\, disarmament and non-proliferation. Moderated by Elena Sokova (VCDNP)\, it featured some of the Mentors of the programme\, including: Sybille Bauer (Stockholm International Peace Research Institute\, SIPRI)\, Renata Hessmann (The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research\, UNIDIR)\, Filippa Lentzos (King’s College London)\, and Jenny Nielsen (Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization\, CTBTO). \n  \n \n  \nDuring the second panel\, three Mentees of the programme\, Intan Bedisa (International NGO Forum on Indonesian Development\, INFID)\, Stella Blumfelde (University of Genoa) and Emily Faux (University of Leeds)\, presented on issues related to non-proliferation and disarmament\, specifically: regional approaches to nuclear non-proliferation\, cybersecurity and disinformation\, and popular culture and nuclear politics respectively. The panel was co-moderated by Mara Zarka (VCDNP) and Manuel Herrera (IAI). \n \n  \nThe last panel was devoted to a comprehensive evaluation of the programme with a view to receiving feedbacks and making improvements for future editions. The open discussion was moderated by Federica Dall’Arche (VCDNP). \n  \n \n  \nThe event was opened by IAI Director Nathalie Tocci\, while closing remarks were delivered by Ettore Greco (IAI). \n \n  \nFor more information\, please visit the website of the initiative below: \nhttps://nonproliferation.eu/activities/education-programmes/young-women-and-next-generation-initiative/ \n  \n  URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/young-women-and-next-generation-initiative-in-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-mentorship-programme-1st-edition-final-meeting/ LOCATION:IAI Istituto Affari Internazionali\, Via dei Montecatini\, 17\, Roma\, 00186\, Italy CATEGORIES:Young Women and Next Generation Initiative ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Screenshot-2022-05-12-at-12.47.38.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20220428T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20220428T170000 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20240527T114902Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240527T115001Z UID:13707-1651132800-1651165200@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Young Women and Next Generation Initiative in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme – 1st Edition Final Meeting DESCRIPTION:Young Women and Next Generation Initiative in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme – 1st Edition Final Meeting\nOn 28-29 April 2022\, as part of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI)\, the International Affairs Institute (IAI) and the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP)\, with the support of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium\, organized the final meeting of the 1st  edition of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme \, an initiative aimed to pair successful candidates (mentees) with well-established experts (mentors) and engage in a mentoring relationship. During this last year\, Mentees had the opportunity to attend relevant conferences and outreach events on non-proliferation\, disarmament\, arms control and related topics\, including the EUNPDC Annual Conference and the Next Generation Workshop. Networking and career opportunities have been also facilitated through seminars\, social events and other activities. \nPrevious events can be found here. \nThe event was divided into three thematic panels. \nThe first panel addressed current and emerging challenges and opportunities in arms control\, disarmament and non-proliferation. Moderated by Elena Sokova (VCDNP)\, it featured some of the Mentors of the programme\, including: Sybille Bauer (Stockholm International Peace Research Institute\, SIPRI)\, Renata Hessmann (The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research\, UNIDIR)\, Filippa Lentzos (King’s College London)\, and Jenny Nielsen (Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization\, CTBTO). \nVCDNP Executive Director Elena Sokova with Sybille Bauer\, Renata Hessmann\, Filippa Lentzos and Jenny Nielsen\nDuring the second panel\, three Mentees of the programme\, Intan Bedisa (International NGO Forum on Indonesian Development\, INFID)\, Stella Blumfelde (University of Genoa) and Emily Faux (University of Leeds)\, presented on issues related to non-proliferation and disarmament\, specifically: regional approaches to nuclear non-proliferation\, cybersecurity and disinformation\, and popular culture and nuclear politics respectively. The panel was co-moderated by Mara Zarka (VCDNP) and Manuel Herrera (IAI). \nThe second panel was co-moderated by Mara Zarka (VCDNP) and Manuel Herrera (IAI).\nThe last panel was devoted to a comprehensive evaluation of the programme with a view to receiving feedbacks and making improvements for future editions. The open discussion was moderated by Federica Dall’Arche (VCDNP). \nFederica Dall’Arche moderating the last panel\nThe event was opened by IAI Director Nathalie Tocci\, while closing remarks were delivered by Ettore Greco (IAI). \nRead the concept note and event agenda \nYou can find Intan Bedisa’s presentation here. \nYou can find Stella Blumfelde’s presentation here. \nYou can find Emily Faux’s presentation here. \nFor more information\, please visit the website of the initiative. URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/young-women-and-next-generation-initiative-in-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-mentorship-programme-1st-edition-final-meeting-2/ CATEGORIES:Young Women in non-proliferation and disarmament Mentorship Programme ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/final-event-1st-mentorship-programme-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20220331T150000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20220331T161500 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20220413T082022Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220414T074236Z UID:11574-1648738800-1648743300@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Working at International Organisations: Tips and Insights for the Next Generation – the BWC and the OPCW DESCRIPTION:On 31 March 2022\, as part of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI)\, the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) and the International Affairs Institute (IAI) with the support of the EU Non‑Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium\, organized the fourth YWNGI public outreach event. The event was dedicated to tips and insights for working at international organisations\, and\, in particular\, those who oversee the prohibition of biological and chemical weapons. Previous events can be found here. \nAimed at both young professionals and students\, especially young women\, the webinar featured Daniel Feakes\, Chief of the Implementation Support Unit of the Biological and Toxins Weapons Convention (BWC-ISU)\, and Elisabeth Waechter\, Head of the Public Affairs Branch of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). \nThe event was opened with welcome remarks by IAI Executive Vice PresidentEttore Greco and moderated by VCDNP Senior Research Associate Federica Dall’Arche. \n \nDaniel Feakes started his remarks with the hindsight of his own career path. Starting with an internship in academia focused on chemical and biological issues\, he has now been working in the field for over 20 years. Feakes noted how a technical degree is not required in order to enter the field and that history\, international relations\, and regional studies students are all well equipped for a career in this field. Feakes then provided a brief overview of the Biological and Toxins Weapons Convention (BWC)\, highlighting its key functions such as sustaining the unequivocal norm against these weapons\, creating the platform for a global dialogue\, promoting peaceful uses of biological agents and toxins\, and building transparency among States. He also provided an overview of the work of the ISU\, which is based in the Geneva Branch of the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA). \nFeakes noted that nowadays young people can find numerous professional and educational opportunities online\, pointing specifically to the UNODA website\, including information on the Youth4Disarmament initiative.  He also highlighted the United Nations career opportunities for youth\, which include internships\, the Young Professionals Programme (YPP)\, and the Junior Professional Officer Programme (JPO). \nAmong other opportunities\, Feakes mentioned several intended for young scientists including the 6th Annual Next Generation For Biosecurity Competition\, IFBA Global Mentorship program\, iGEM 2022 Grand Jamboree\, Emerging Leaders in Biosecurity Fellowship\, and Biosecurity Champions Fellowship. \nHe concluded his remarks by mentioning the Youth Declaration for Biosecurity that was developed by young scientists participating in the Second Edition of the Biosecurity Diplomacy Workshop for Young Scientists from the Global South held in 2021. “Such opportunities can arise from networking and collective brain power\, collective activism\, dedication\, and commitment.” \n \nElisabeth Waechter provided an overview of the OPCW and its work. Waechter noted that the OPCW is the implementing body of the legally binding Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC)\, which aims to eliminate chemical weapons in all aspects\, including development\, production\, stockpiling\, transfer and use. In 2013\, the Organisation was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its extensive efforts in eliminating chemical weapons. This was particularly timely given the OPCW’s active involvement in overseeing the elimination of Syria’s chemical weapons programme in the safest and most secure manner possible since the country’s accession to the CWC in 2013. She also explained the history\, goals and mandate of the OPCW\, highlighting that the Organisation also works on preventing the use of chemical weapons and potential responses to such use\, and promotes peaceful uses of chemistry. \nIn reference to her career\, Waechter defined herself as an experienced international civil servant having worked in numerous UN bodies\, many of which were focused on disarmament. When speaking about her work within the OPCW\, she highlighted that one of the key areas her Division is tasked with is the achievement of the CWC’s universality. In this regard\, Waechter stressed the importance of communication in the disarmament field\, especially since it does not always receive the attention it deserves:“There is a lot to do and learn in the area of science communication and communication around disarmament.”Waechter noted that the OPCW is always recruiting\, therefore she encouraged the audience to explore the OPCW’s twitter\, LinkedIn\, and employment pages\, highlighting the paid internship opportunities available in different sectors within the Organisation. \n \nThe discussion following the presentations covered a wide spectrum of topics\, ranging from the most appropriate fields of study to ways to stand out\, including the most useful skills and core competencies to acquire. Among the traditionally desirable skills like strong English language and knowledge of other languages\, leadership\, teamwork\, intercultural communications\, creativity\, willingness to learn\, and IT skills were also mentioned. “Anything that is related to social media\, layout and design of publication and infographics – those additional skills certainly help people to stand out from the crowd.” \nSpeakers also provided information regarding the recruitment process and shared tips for solid applications and successful competency-based interviews. Both speakers encouraged applicants to be patient and to keep trying even when faced with numerous rejections. They stressed that it is a myth that you will not get hired if you do not know someone within the organisation or wider UN network\, emphasizing: “If you do not apply you will not have a chance”. \nThe event concluded with both representatives sharing their personal motivation to work in the biological and chemical disarmament field. Waechter stressed that as an international servant for 17 years\, she could not imagine doing any other work indicating that “what drives me is the realisation that what we do matters\, that it is important.” Feakes agreed and added that both passion and motivation are needed in order to do this type of job\, concluding that “the main purpose of what we are doing\, preventing biological or chemical weapons from being developed and used\, that is the kind of noble thing to be doing.” \nThe full recording of the outreach event can be found below: \nhttps://youtu.be/GIupdeBfVGY \nFor more information: \n\nDaniel Feakes can be contacted at daniel.feakes@un.org and his presentation is available for download here.\nElisabeth Waechter can be contacted at elisabeth.waechter@opcw.org and her presentation is available for download here.\n\n  URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/working-at-international-organisations-tips-and-insights-for-the-next-generation-the-bwc-and-the-opcw/ CATEGORIES:Next generation workshop,Young Women and Next Generation Initiative ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/pp-donne_e_non_prolif.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20220331T150000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20220331T161500 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20220323T092952Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220323T093527Z UID:11567-1648738800-1648743300@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Young Women and Next Generation Initiative - Fourth Outreach Event DESCRIPTION:The International Affairs Institute (IAI) and the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non Proliferation (VCDNP) will organize a virtual event entitled: “Working at International Organizations: Tips and Insights for the Next Generation – the BWC and the OPCW.” \nThe event will be held on Thursday\, 31 March 2022 from 3:00 to 4:15 PM (CEST) via Zoom. \nThe webinar will feature introductory presentations by representatives from the Implementation Support Unit (ISU) of the Biological and Toxins Weapons Convention (BWC) and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). Speakers will share their personal experience in the field and provide insights and information\, including how to enter and advance in a career in the non-proliferation and disarmament field with a focus on biological and chemical sciences. Following the experts’ remarks\, the meeting will be open for questions and comments from the audience. \nThe event will be open to the general public and will be held as a part of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative\, led by the VCDNP and the International Affairs Institute (IAI) in the framework and with the support of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (EUNPD) Consortium. \nACCESS THE AGENDA HERE \nACCESS THE REGISTRATION FORM HERE \nThe opinions/views expressed by the speakers in the event do not necessarily reflect the opinions/views of the International Affairs Institute nor the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation nor their employees. URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/young-women-and-next-generation-initiative-fourth-outreach-event/ CATEGORIES:Education Programmes,Young Women and Next Generation Initiative ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/pp-donne_e_non_prolif.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20210906T000000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20210906T235900 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20210824T155651Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210825T091133Z UID:10900-1630886400-1630972740@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Do You Aspire to Work at an International Organization? Tips and Insights for Young Professionals. DESCRIPTION:The Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) cordially invites you to attend a virtual event for young professionals and students interested in working at and engaging with international  organisations in Vienna\, which will be held on Monday\, 6 September 2021 from 15:00 to 16:30 Central European Summer Time (CEST) via Zoom. For those unable to access Zoom\, the event will also be livestreamed to YouTube. \nWhat skills and competencies do international organisations look for in the recruitment process? How can you best prepare yourself for a career as an international civil servant? How does the application process work and how best to prepare for an interview? What pathways exist to internships\, training and capacity building programmes and other opportunities? Representatives from three international organisations in Vienna – the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)\, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Organization (CTBTO)\, and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) – will speak to these questions and more during this event. \nThe event will be held as a part of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament\, led by the VCDNP and the Istituto Affari Internazionali with the support of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium. \nSpeakers: \nMr. Pedro Álvarez Cobacho\, Recruitment Officer\, IAEA \nMs. Maria Chepurina\, External Relations Officer\, CTBTO \nMs. Monika Ivic\, Talent Acquisition Assistant\, OSCE \nThe discussion will be moderated by Elena K. Sokova\, Executive Director of the VCDNP and an International Gender Champion\, Vienna Hub. \nThe opinions/views expressed by the speakers in the event do not necessarily reflect the opinions/views of the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation or its employees. \n\nRegistration and Questions\nWe kindly ask you to RSVP using the online registration form. \nBy registering for this event you acknowledge and agree to the VCDNP Responsible & Respectful Behavior Policy. URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/do-you-aspire-to-work-at-an-international-organization-tips-and-insights-for-young-professionals/ CATEGORIES:Education Programmes,Young Women and Next Generation Initiative ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Image1-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210429 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210430 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20210512T081044Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210824T161009Z UID:10732-1619654400-1619740799@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:The European Union’s Role in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament and Its Engagement with Academia and The Younger Generation DESCRIPTION:On 29 April 2021\, as part of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI)\, the VCDNP and the International Affairs Institute (IAI) in Rome\, Italy\, with the support of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC)\, organized the second public outreach event focused on the EU and its policies on non-proliferation and disarmament\, as well as its engagement with academia and the younger generation. The panellists included former High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice‑President of the European Commission\, Rector of the College of Europe\, Federica Mogherini\, Special Envoy for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation of the European External Action Service (EEAS)\, Ambassador Marjolijn van Deelen\, and the EUNPDC Chair\, Dr. Sibylle Bauer. \n \nIAI’s Executive Vice President Ettore Greco provided welcome remarks and VCDNP’s Executive Director Elena Sokova moderated the session. Over 300 individuals attended the event\, including many of the Young Women in Non‑Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme participants and other EUNPDC next generation conference and training course individuals. The high level of interest demonstrates the strong need for these discussions and opportunities to interact. \nMs. Federica Mogherini\nFederica Mogherini shared her experience working as the former High Representative\, highlighting the role her team played in 2015 in the final months of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) negotiations with Iran. Stressing that negotiations on the JCPOA are again taking place in Vienna\, Austria\, Rector Mogherini noted the crucial role of the EU in maintaining and monitoring the agreement\, despite the US’s withdrawal in 2018. The EU had a unique role to play in the negotiations as it served as the facilitator and the depository for the text of the agreement. The EU also conducted a fair amount of detailed\, technical work on the agreement to make sure nothing was left to interpretation\, especially regarding sanctions related issues and nuclear commitments. The facilitator role provided the EU with the institutional basis to reach out to the other parties to the JCPOA after the US withdrew\, to ensure that the agreement was preserved and monitored. According to Rector Mogherini\, the EU has a role to play in non‑proliferation and disarmament\, especially given Europe’s history and experience of devastation when arms control fell short\, emphasizing that the EU should become champions in solidifying the international community’s reliability in arms control\, non‑proliferation and disarmament infrastructures and regimes. \nAmbassador Marjolijn van Deelen\nSupporting arms control architecture and treaties\, strengthening multilateral institutions\, and supporting third countries in developing their arms control\, non-proliferation and disarmament architecture is at the core of the EU’s non-proliferation and disarmament strategy. Ambassador Marjolijn van Deelen highlighted that the EU is committed to strengthening the international security environment and recognizes that it cannot tackle global challenges\, like those posed by proliferation risks\, alone. The EU has multiple institutions focused on non-proliferation and disarmament ranging from the EEAS\, which serves as the EU’s diplomatic service\, to the EU Commission which manages the EU’s policies on dual-use export controls and the EU Chemical\, Biological\, Radiological\, and Nuclear Risk Mitigation Centres of Excellence\, to the Joint Research Centre focused on technical issues related to disarmament verification. Nuclear safeguards in the EU are implemented by EURATOM that also provides valuable expertise on international safeguards development to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and EEAS office. In international fora the EU is active in taking common positions in support of existing treaties\, encouraging other States to accede to treaties they are not yet party to\, and supporting institutions\, like the IAEA and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization\, that support these treaties. The EU strongly believes in the powers of multilateral diplomacy to resolve problems peacefully and is devoted to ensuring the international system is fit for purpose. To do this\, the EU works closely in partnership with other institutions and academia. \nDr. Sibylle Bauer\nThe European network of independent non-proliferation and disarmament think tanks\, was established in 2010 with the full support of all EU Member States to contribute to independent research and education activities in non-proliferation and disarmament. Dr. Sibylle Bauer shared with the audience the make-up of the Network\, comprised of over 100 members\, and of the Consortium that coordinates its activities . Dr. Bauer also talked about the various activities\, of which the YWNGI is included\, that the Consortium implements with the support of the EU. Importantly\, it was emphasized that the EUNPDC focuses on a wide range of issues in non-proliferation and disarmament\, ranging from nuclear\, to conventional\, to biological\, to outer space and emerging technologies. It was also stressed that the EUNPDC is not limited to institutions in EU Member States but also includes members from third countries outside the EU. For more information on the EUNPDC and its activities please consult the nonproliferation.eu website. \nThe prepared remarks were followed by a second round of questions seeking panellists’ advice for young women and the next generation interested in entering the field of arms control\, non‑proliferation and disarmament. Rector Mogherini emphasized the importance of leading by example\, noting that the EU delegation sometimes was only composed of women whereas their interlocuters were solely comprised of men. She also noted that to really address the imbalances in the field\, it is important to start with academia and the curricula they encourage their students to follow. The panellists all agreed on a strong list of seven skills and qualities for both professional and personal growth presented by Dr. Sibylle Bauer: \n\nClear thinking and solid analysis;\nExcellence;\nCommitment;\nAuthenticity;\nIntegrity;\nEmpathy\, in which active listening and really caring was stressed; and\nCreative Problem Solving.\n\n“What also is really important\, I think\, is to help others not just get a foot in the door but then to help them stay in the field and climb up.” – Sibylle Bauer \nAdding to this list\, other panellists emphasized the importance of working in teams\, indicating that every role in a team is important and no one role should be perceived as any more or less significant. \n“You need a mix of people that have different competences and when you put those together you can be much stronger.” – Marjolijn van Deelen \nThere was resounding agreement that passion and interest in what one is doing is the best guide to navigating one’s career. Also\, the panellists encouraged participants to not be afraid to try new things and to be willing to go into depth on topics that may not fall within their educational background\, whether it be more policy-oriented or technical. \n“I think passion in what you are doing is the only thing that really counts.” – Federica Mogherini \nSome highlights from the question-and-answer session include insights into the difficulties in forming a common position in the EU\, noting the diversity of the group and the need for fierce\, internal debates. Once a common position or statement has been agreed\, it serves as an umbrella under which other like-minded countries can align themselves. All speakers stressed that given the divergent views within the EU\, when a common position has been adopted\, especially on controversial matters\, it is a powerful statement that can offer hope to the larger international community and refocus energy on where agreement exists\, and action can be taken. URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/the-european-unions-role-in-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-and-its-engagement-with-academia-and-the-younger-generation/ CATEGORIES:Young Women and Next Generation Initiative ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Capture-d’écran-2021-05-12-à-10.08.23.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20210413T150000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20210413T180000 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20210426T080807Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210426T081115Z UID:10677-1618326000-1618336800@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Next Generation Follow-Up Meeting DESCRIPTION:Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic\, there are currently few opportunities for the next generation to meet around the world and think together about the great challenges of our times. With these words\, Elena Sokova\, Executive Director of the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP)\, opened the 2021 EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Next Generation Follow-Up Meeting. \nThe event – jointly organized by the VCDNP and the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI) within the framework of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium – follows the Next Generation Workshop on non-proliferation and disarmament\, an initiative held annually that brings together outstanding young scholars\, students and professionals to present fresh ideas and solutions to current non-proliferation and disarmament challenges. \nAs stressed by Ettore Greco\, Executive Vice President of IAI\, it is essential to substantially involve the younger generation on these issues in order to not only identify gaps and barriers in the existing policies\, but also to let fresh ideas and new perspectives help to promote innovative forms of cooperation in an era of daunting challenges for multilateralism. Under the same auspices\, the Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme was launched during the same week. \nThe meeting was attended by more than 120 participants\, including women and girls from all over the world and with the most diverse backgrounds. The event was organised in two tracks. The first track was highly informative\, during which two prominent experts addressed respectively biosecurity challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic and the most current cybersecurity concerns in relation to non-proliferation. The second track of the event was dedicated to networking. Noting that the COVID-19 pandemic has left many young individuals isolated and detached from ongoing activities and has severely limited academic exchanges and training opportunities\, the goal of the second track was to provide a framework for young people to meet\, exchange ideas and promote their work. \nVIEW THE MEETING AGENDA\nThe Impact of COVID-19 and other Bio-Security Challenges\nThe first topic was addressed by Dr. Filippa Lentzos\, Senior Research Fellow at the King’s College London. As pointed by Federica Dall’Arche\, Researcher at IAI and moderator of the panel\, the topic was particularly timely due to recent discussions on the origin of the virus. In order to reach an assessment of the health and societal impacts caused by COVID-19\, Dr. Lentzos walked the participants through an accurate and anguished timeline of the pandemic stressing\, in particular\, the evolution of the Chinese government’s narrative on the spread of the virus\, the role of the World Health Organization and the progressive recognition of the modalities of human-to-human transmission. As the pandemic escalated\, however\, many questions remain unanswered\, according to Dr. Lentzos. The direct impact of the virus on health is still poorly understood and the extent of the indirect and long-term consequences will only fully emerge with time. The enormous socioeconomic effects of the virus\, however\, are already clear. Dr. Lentzos noted how the virus led to the disappearance of 225 million full-time jobs around the world and has exacerbated long-standing economic\, racial and gender divides. Women\, in particular\, are paying the highest price\, comprising 70% of global health and social care personnel. In addition to the consequently increased exposure to risk\, women are also victims of what UN Women has called “the shadow pandemic\,” i.e. a worrying increase in gender-based violence and domestic violence. \n\nThe effects of the pandemic still remain at least partially unknown\, and this is even more true for its origin. As essential as it is to reconstruct a clear picture of what happened to reduce the risk of the introduction of new viruses to the human population\, we still know little about the time\, place and causes that led to the break out of COVID-19. “What should have been a routine science question\,” Dr. Lentzos argued\, “has instead become extremely politically charged.” In early April 2021\, a WHO-China Joint Mission on COVID-19 released a study listing four different possibilities on the origins of the outbreak of the pandemic. The first hypothesis listed is that the virus jumped from an animal directly to a human; the second\, that the virus jumped from an animal to an intermediate host and then to a human; the third hypothesis is that the virus was imported to China via frozen food; the last hypothesis is that it spread because of a lab leak. While\, according to the report\, the second theory seems to be the most likely\, the joint nature of the report raises significant doubts on its mandate and independence. The lack of adequately grounded evidence to favour one hypothesis over another is also a cause of particular concern\, according to Dr. Lentzos. Yet\, understanding the origin of COVID-19 would be essential to strategise on how to prepare for future pandemics. \nDr. Lentzos concluded her remarks noting that biological threats are not limited to the current pandemic. Among other risks\, she included: the potential accidents in biosafety laboratories\, noting that many laboratories are currently under-monitored and under-regulated; deliberate biothreats caused by a growing technical capacity to modify pathogen and transfer them to the human body; and biological information warfare possibly targeting specific individuals or groups. Remarkably\, the effects of biological information warfare are substantially indifferent from those of real\, internationally prohibited biological warfare. This makes disarmament efforts particularly difficult. \nCyber Security and Implications for Non-Proliferation\nThe relevance of cyber security\, as reminded by Mara Zarka\, Project/Events Manager and Research Associate at the VCDNP and moderator of the second panel\, has recently been brought into the spotlight because of the alleged cyberattack to the Natanz nuclear plant in Iran. Although cybersecurity has been on the policymaking eye for over a decade\, these events show that the answers we have come up with still remain largely unsatisfactory. According to Dr. Alexi Drew\, Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Policy Institute at King’s College London\, “most of the cyber issues that we see in international security arise out of a lingering series of misperceptions about what cyber security actually is\, and who does it.” The actors involved are indeed changing rapidly with drastic consequences within the arms control arena. What was traditionally negotiated between States and within international institutions\, is now addressed in far more complex negations because of the growing role of the so-called cyber emerging technologies. As a consequence\, continued Dr. Drew\, today private industries are the new predominant group of actors shaping the cybersecurity field\, with a variable role left to the States. Remarkably\, both private actors and States are increasingly aware of the new balance of power and of who can really set the standards. Cutting-edge technology is no longer directed solely by States’ interests\, with enormous consequences on international governance dynamics. In fact\, according to Dr. Drew\, while technology might seem neutral and apolitical\, it is the result of ethical and political choices. The kind of decisions now happening are about the importance of privacy in next generation technologies and algorithms\, or about how domestic and international standards should be set. And these standards are increasingly set by private actors. \n \nAnother crucial and often underestimated aspect of cyber security has to do with supply chains that contribute to creating broader attack surfaces\, linking private and public digital infrastructures. However\, as Dr. Drew explained\, not everything that takes place in the cyber space can or should be considered as a form of warfare. In the large majority of cases\, it is about cyber espionage\, never intended to cause physical damage. This difference is widespread and yet difficult to explain\, since it is incidents such as the one that happened at the Natanz nuclear plant – actually intended to cause physical damage – that make the headlines. The consequent general failure in grasping these nuances between espionage and attacks remains one of the main barriers to effective policymaking on cybersecurity. The key of the instability risk that should be addressed by cybersecurity is indeed the possibility of escalation due to lack of knowledge\, resulting from a deliberate policy on the side of both States and institutions involved in a cyber event. For instance\, NATO members have never defined the standard beyond which a cyber incident can be considered a full-fledged attack\, thus expanding the deterrent potential. However\, this makes it hard to establish where the line is and represents a critical risk of escalation or “splash effect.” Dr. Drew concluded her remarks noting that cyber capabilities are rapidly proliferating\, both in terms of defence and attack capabilities. \nNetworking session\nDuring this session\, participants were divided in groups and provided with ice-breaking questions. \nThe discussion in the different groups covered both the main pressing challenges to non-proliferation and disarmament as well as ways in which the EUNPDC and its members could do to better engage the next generation and young women in the field. \nREAD TAKEAWAYS FROM THE NETWORKING SESSION URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/eu-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-next-generation-follow-up-meeting/ CATEGORIES:Next generation workshop,Young Women and Next Generation Initiative ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/VCDNP-NEXTGEN.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20210412T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20210412T170000 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20210412T114503Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240527T114657Z UID:13705-1618214400-1618246800@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme Launch Event DESCRIPTION:Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme Launch Event\nOn 12 April 2021\, the International Affairs Institute (IAI) and the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP)\, as part of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI)\, held the first meeting of the recently established Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (YWNPD) Mentorship Programme. \nThe YWNPD mentorship programme\, which is organized in the framework of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC)\, pairs 19 young women (mentees)\, carefully chosen through a highly-competitive selection process\, with well-established experts (mentors) to engage in a mentoring relationship that envisions\, among other things\, regular video-conferencing sessions. Mentees are also expected to attend conferences\, seminars\, social events\, and other activities to be exposed to networking and career opportunities. \nOpen Nuclear Network Director Laura Rockwood gives her keynote address.\nThe launch event was opened by VCDNP Executive Director Elena Sokova and EUNPDC Chair Sibylle Bauer. Afterwards organisers laid out expectations for the programme and a round of introductions followed. The launch event concluded with a keynote address by Laura Rockwood\, Director of the Open Nuclear Network and member of the YWNGI Advisory Board. Ms. Rockwood provided participants with an overview of her career in the field and tips for how to succeed. She shared stories and anecdotes from her experience\, in particular her work at the International Atomic Energy Agency\, where she served 28 years in the Department of Safeguards and was the principal author of the document that became the Model Additional Protocol. She also provided valuable insights and recommendations on how to thrive in the field\, highlighting that sometimes the best career path is not the most direct nor the one you thought you would take. In her experience\, Ms. Rockwood noted that active listening\, strong writing skills and learning how to structure your thoughts and arguments\, have proved valuable. \nAside from mentors and mentees\, the event was attended by members of the EUNPD Consortium\, of the YWNGI Advisory Board\, and by representatives from the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the Service for Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI). \nRead the event agenda URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/young-women-in-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-mentorship-programme-launch-event/ CATEGORIES:Young Women in non-proliferation and disarmament Mentorship Programme ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/pp-donne_e_non_prolif.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210222 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210227 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20210414T150042Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210414T150104Z UID:10533-1613952000-1614383999@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:February 2021 Introductory Course on the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction DESCRIPTION:From 22 to 26 February 2021\, the VCDNP held its first intensive introductory course on the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) for students of biological and chemical sciences. The course\, conducted in an online format\, brought together 29 students affiliated with eight European universities as well as universities in Nigeria\, the Philippines\, and Russia. Women made up 59 percent of the participants. \n \nThe course covered a broad range of topics and was designed to provide an   overview of the basics of biological\, chemical and nuclear weapons and their proliferation\, existing control regimes\, and potential impact of new and emerging technologies on WMD threats. \nStudents learned about various elements of the international WMD disarmament and non-proliferation regimes\, including the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BWC)\, the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC)\, and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)\, as well as strategic trade controls. Course sessions also provided an in-depth look at the advances in life sciences and their implications for chemical and biological weapon threats. The programme included case studies on biosecurity and ethics\, nuclear proliferation challenges\, and investigation of chemical weapons use and dismantlement of a chemical weapons arsenal. \nVCDNP Senior Fellow Angela Kane participating in the session dedicated to a case study on Syria’s chemical weapons program.\nA panel discussion on new and emerging technologies featuring Dr. Filippa Lentzos (King’s College London)\, Dr. Ulrich Kühn (IFSH)\, and Dr. James Revill (UNIDIR) allowed for a candid exchange of opinions concerning the threats and opportunities these technologies present for mitigating WMD risks. \nFilippa Lentzos (King’s College London)\, Ulrich Kühn (IFSH)\, and Dr. James Revill (UNIDIR) discussion new and emerging technologies and WMD threats.\nExperts and senior officials from international organisations and academic institutions that presented at the course included Dr. Sibylle Bauer (SIPRI)\, Daniel Feakes (BWC Implementation Support Unit)\, Dr. Mirko Himmel (University of Hamburg)\, Dr. Peter Hotchkiss (OPCW)\, Dr. Ulrich Kühn (IFSH)\, Dr. Filippa Lentzos (King’s College London)\, Dr. James Revill (UNIDIR)\, Dr. Clarissa Rios Rojas (Cambridge University)\, Shruti Sharma (Carnegie Endowment for International Peace\, India)\, and Jerry Smith (CHC Global\, former OPCW Team Leader). The VCDNP lecturers included Angela Kane\, Gaukhar Mukhatzhanova\, and Elena Sokova. Women made up 54 percent of the lecturers. \nDr. Sibylle Bauer and Dr. Mirko Himmel give an overview of Strategic Trade Controls.\n \n \n \n \n \n Loading...\n \n \n \n \n \n Taking too long?\n \n \n Reload document \n |\n \n Open in new tab \n \n \n \n Download \nAt the end of the course\, the participants completed a questionnaire\, which gave them an opportunity to assess various aspects of the short course and anonymously provide feedback. Overall\, the participants rated the course as an excellent contribution to their knowledge and understanding of issues related to WMD proliferation risks. Below are some of the comments provided by participants (quoted as written): \nIt introduced me to the world of non-proliferation and how important it is for our world. It also helped me understand all the mechanism[s] that are necessary to implement the controls and the tough job behind all of this. \n*** \nAs an undergraduate student\, it is very rare that we are taught about the ethical side of what we are doing. Recently there have been some improvements in teaching about sustainability concerns\, but this course has been basically the only formal education on security threats that our research may pose. I would say that I have learned a lot on the matter\, and that I now have a base and some pointers to continue my education in this topic. \n*** \nThis course offered me a complete picture of all weapons of mass destruction but also of possible future risks. Amazing speakers and wonderful presentation of all key points. \n*** \nThank you for having this course for students with science background. This course will greatly help us understand that there is more that science can offer in terms of international peace\, security and stability. \nThe VCDNP extends its gratitude to the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium for their generous support that made this course possible. The course was funded by the European Union through the EUNPDC pursuant to the EU Council Decision 2018/299. URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/february-2021-introductory-course-on-the-proliferation-of-weapons-of-mass-destruction/ CATEGORIES:Education Programmes,Proliferation Awareness Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Capture-d’écran-2021-04-14-à-16.55.43.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210210 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210211 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20210421T114637Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210422T152150Z UID:10641-1612915200-1613001599@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Non-Proliferation\, Arms Control and Disarmament: Changes in the Field and Career Tracks DESCRIPTION:The fields of arms control\, non-proliferation and security have been dominated by men. Though improvements have been made over the last decade\, diversity is still lacking in terms of gender\, color\, and age. This observation is the driving force behind the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI) launched on 10 February 2021 by the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) and the International Affairs Institute (IAI) in Rome\, Italy\, in the framework of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium. The Initiative encourages young women and the next generation to enter the non‑proliferation\, arms control\, and disarmament field\, especially at a time in which the global pandemic has isolated many young people who may find themselves lacking resources and assistance. \nIn this spirit\, the launch event featured a spectacular panel of speakers from different backgrounds including Angela Kane\, former UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs\, Ambassador Kjersti Andersen of Norway\, Dr. Kim Baines\, a scientist at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Dr. Heather Williams from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. IAI’s Researcher Federica Dall’Arche moderated the event and VCDNP Executive Director Elena Sokova offered welcoming remarks. The event attracted over 350 attendees highlighting the appetite to learn more and engage in the field. \nL-R: Federica Dall’Arche (IAI)\, Dr. Kim Baines: (IAEA)\, Elena Sokova (VCDNP)\, Dr. Heather Williams (MIT)\, Ambassador Kjersti Andersen (Norway)\, Angela Kane (VCDNP).\nThe speakers addressed how the non-proliferation\, arms control and disarmament field has changed over the years and provided insights into their own experiences in the field as well as offered recommendations for the next generation. Coming from diverse backgrounds\, the speakers drew on experiences in the UN\, government\, natural sciences\, and academia\, emphasizing the diversity of the field itself and highlighting that there are many different pathways to enter the non-proliferation\, arms control\, and disarmament area. In her opening remarks\, Angela Kane stressed that to make a difference in the field it is not necessary to have a background specifically on arms control and non-proliferation and encouraged the next generation to think of the field with a wider lens focused on international policy and security. \nIn reflecting on how the field has changed over the years\, speakers noted that the representation of women has seen an improvement\, with many panellists noting that at the start of their careers it was not rare to be the only women in a room full of men. Despite the improvement\, however\, Ambassador Andersen highlighted that “once you have gender parity within an organization you need to keep working on it because it is never achieved once and for all.” Dr. Baines also personally expressed excitement on “the paradigm shift that has been occurring over the last five years to be inclusive of women in technical and political disciplines.” This shift is also supported by the IAEA’s newly established Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme. \nPanellists also offered insights and recommendations to early- to mid-career individuals. There was consensus among the panellists on the need to accept challenges\, to reach out to colleagues and other experts\, to build a network\, and follow one’s passion. Caution was expressed in terms of networking though\, noting that one needs to be conscientious of others time\, and though many in the field are happy to help\, such networking effort must be done with a purpose or question in mind. In this regard Dr. Heather Williams stressed the importance of being someone that other people want to work and network with\, as the arms control\, non-proliferation and disarmament field is a community and most people know each other and collaborate with one another. \nMany participants were keen to learn of opportunities and recommendations for what they could actively be doing during the pandemic and beyond\, especially as the implications of COVID-19 on the job market remain to be seen. Panellists provided plenty of ideas\, including the importance of writing and publishing as it shows willingness to take intellectual risks. Speakers also stressed the need to invest in one’s skills\, such as presentation skills\, languages and intellectual curiosity in other fields of study. One way to expand one’s knowledge is through courses\, traineeships\, internships and mentorships\, such as those offered by the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS)\, King’s College London\, Women in Nuclear\, country embassies and permanent missions\, and international organisations. \nThe event ended with an anecdote shared by Angela Kane emphasizing the importance of women needing to support one another in a still largely male dominated field. One way to do this is by promoting and establishing an advocacy network or group of like-minded individuals to make a statement that could lead to change. \nMore events like this one will be organized and the VCDNP and IAI look forward to connecting and making use of the virtual format with which we are now familiar. To learn more about VCDNP and IAI’s initiative and mentorship programme or email mzarka@middlebury.edu or f.dallarche@iai.it. URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/non-proliferation-arms-control-and-disarmament-changes-in-the-field-and-career-tracks/ CATEGORIES:Young Women and Next Generation Initiative ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/YWND-619x352.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20200219 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20200220 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20210204T150538Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210414T141249Z UID:10302-1582070400-1582156799@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Short Course on The Spread of Nuclear Weapons: History\, Threats and Solutions DESCRIPTION:On 19-21 February 2020\, the VCDNP held the first course on nuclear non-proliferation for graduate and post-graduate students in the fields of IT and engineering\, titled “The Spread of Nuclear Weapons: History\, Threats and Solutions”. The course represented a joint project between the VCDNP and the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC)\, of which the VCDNP is one of six leading non-governmental organizations. The course brought together 26 participants from nine European universities in nine countries. \nCourse instructors Alexi Drew (King’s College London)\, Gaukhar Mukhatzhanova (VCDNP)\, Sibylle Bauer (SIPRI)\, Elena Sokova (VCDNP) and Jean-Maurice Crete (IAEA\, retired) during the course’s final session on “Nuclear Proliferation\, New Technologies\, and the Shape of the Future\nThe three-day course was designed to provide an introduction to nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament issues to students of technical subjects. The program covered a broad range of topics\, from the fundamentals of the nuclear fuel cycle and the history of the spread of nuclear weapons\, to export controls and the challenges and opportunities presented by advanced and emerging technologies. \nThe students learned about different elements of the international non-proliferation regime\, including the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons\, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its safeguards\, and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) and the verification system it establishes. Course participants also received an overview of how open source information and tools\, including satellite imagery and image analysis software\, can be used to monitor nuclear and missile programs such as that of North Korea. \nThe lecturers at the course included experts from the VCDNP\, the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies\, IAEA\, CTBTO\, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute\, King’s College London and Austrian Red Cross. \nCourse instructors Alexi Drew (King’s College London)\, Gaukhar Mukhatzhanova (VCDNP)\, Sibylle Bauer (SIPRI)\, Elena Sokova (VCDNP) and Jean-Maurice Crete (IAEA\, retired) during the course’s final session on “Nuclear Proliferation\, New Technologies\, and the Shape of the Future URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/2020-proliferation-awareness-course-invitation-to-apply/ CATEGORIES:Proliferation Awareness Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Image1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20190912 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20190914 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20180915T141023Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T090407Z UID:7683-1568246400-1568419199@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:The UN Disarmament Fellows’ Visits DESCRIPTION:The European Union (EU) Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium is tasked with arranging the visit of the United Nations (UN) Programme of Fellowships on Disarmament to Brussels\, Belgium. The Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) organises the two-to-three-day visit which aims to familiarise participants with the structure and functions of the EU’s main institutions and policy-making bodies\, as well as the EU’s strategies and policies in the field. \nLaunched by the General Assembly in 1978 at its first special session devoted to disarmament\, the UN Programme of Fellowships on Disarmament aims to train and build the capacity of officials from UN Member States to enable them to participate more effectively in international disarmament deliberating and negotiating fora. Since its inception in 1979\, participants in the Fellowship Programme are selected by the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) based on nominations from Member States. The selection process considers the greater needs of developing countries by training their young diplomats in the field of disarmament and security\, and the need for geographical and gender balance. Many participants of the programme have held positions of responsibility in the field of disarmament within their governments and disarmament-related international organisations. \nClick on the arrows to expand the sections. \n  \n\n▶ UN Disarmament Fellows: EU-Focused Day in Vienna – April 2025\n\nOn 10 April 2025\, the VCDNP\, on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC)\, was pleased to organise and host a one-day programme in Vienna to provide the 2025 UN Disarmament Fellows with an overview of the policies and functioning of the European Union (EU)\, in particular related to non-proliferation and disarmament. The 24 UN Disarmament Fellows represented countries from around the world\, with this year’s cohort including only one EU Member State representative. \nThe intensive programme brought together speakers from the EU Delegation in Vienna\, representatives from the European External Action Service (EEAS)\, and the EU Commission in person and virtually\, as well as members of the EUNPDC network. Ambassador Carl Hallergard\, EU Ambassador to the International Organisations in Vienna\, welcomed the Fellows and provided remarks reflecting on Europe’s history\, the establishment of the European Union\, and the challenges Europe faces today. These themes were seen throughout the programme. \n\n \nEU Ambassador in Vienna Carl Hallergard and VCDNP Executive Director Elena K. Sokova with the UN Disarmament Fellows \n\nFollowing welcome remarks\, the programme commenced with an overview of the key EU institutions\, covering in detail the European Council\, the Council of the EU\, the European Commission\, and the European Parliament. Subsequent sessions focused on thematic areas\, including the European Union’s approach to space security\, emerging technologies and arms control\, and export controls on arms and dual-use items. \nThe programme concluded with a presentation from EUNPDC network member Dr. Oliver Meier\, Policy & Research Director at the European Leadership Network\, focused on Europe and the European Union in today’s changing world. \nThe highlight of the programme was the opportunity for the Fellows to engage in an in-person\, informal dialogue with EEAS Special Envoy for Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Ambassador Stephan Klement. The session covered topics across the weapons of mass destruction (WMD) spectrum\, the EU’s 2003 WMD strategy\, and the EU’s role in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. \nThe interactive dialogue allowed for an open and frank conversation about the EU’s position in the non-proliferation and disarmament field and the challenges today’s geopolitical environment presents. \n\n \nEU Special Envoy for Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Stephan Klement and VCDNP Executive Director Elena K. Sokova \n\nThe one-day EU-focused programme in Vienna was packed with dynamic presentations\, active Q&A sessions\, and positive feedback from the participants. \nThe VCDNP extends its gratitude to the European External Action Service and the EU Delegation in Vienna for their support and cooperation in organising the programme\, and thanks the European Union for its support to the EUNPDC for making the event possible. \n\n\n  \n\n▶ UN Disarmament Fellows Visit to Brussels – June 2024\n\nFrom 18 to 19 June 2024\, the VCDNP\, on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC)\, organised a visit for the 2024 UN Disarmament Fellows to Brussels\, Belgium\, to learn more about the policies and functioning of the European Union\, in particular on non-proliferation and disarmament. \nThe group of 25 Fellows\, representing countries from around the world\, travel to various centres of international disarmament and non-proliferation\, including Geneva\, Vienna\, and New York\, to gather insights about the work of the international organisations and to gain a better understanding of issues relevant to non-proliferation and disarmament. \n\n \nUN Disarmament Fellows and VCDNP staff visiting the EU Council \n\nThe programme in Brussels commenced on 18 June with a tour of the EU Council\, to learn about one of the key legislative branches of the European Union and how decisions are made in the EU. Following the tour\, participants proceeded to the European External Action Service (EEAS)\, where Deputy Head of the Division for Disarmament\, Non-Proliferation and Arms Export Controls Mr. Stefan Tressing welcomed them. The Fellows were introduced to the work of the Division and of other policy-making organs in the EU working on non-proliferation and disarmament matters\, as well as the EU’s overall approach to these issues. \nFollowing Mr. Tressing’s remarks\, the work of the Council Working Party on Arms Export Control (COARM) and Council Working Party on Non-Proliferation (CONOP) was discussed. The day ended with presentations from representatives of the EU institutions and EUNPDC network on outer space and emerging technologies\, including artificial intelligence. The UN Disarmament Fellows were also given the opportunity to hear from a representative of NATO on its work in arms control\, disarmament\, and weapons of mass destruction non-proliferation. \n\n \nUN Disarmament Fellows receiving presentations at the European External Action Service \n\nOn the second day\, the UN Disarmament Fellows visited the European Parliament. The tour was timely given the recent European Parliament elections that took place in early June 2024. The visit explained the Parliament’s structure and functioning\, its co-legislative role together with the EU Council\, and how decisions are made. After the visit\, the Fellows heard thematic presentations covering a range of topics from cyber security\, missile defence\, and illicit arms trafficking\, to the role of the EU Joint Research Centre and a review of Belgium’s presidency of the EU Council. An overview of the history\, structure\, and activities of the EUNPDC was provided as well. \n\n \nUN Disarmament Fellows and VCDNP staff visiting the EU Council \n\nAt the end of the programme an anonymous survey was circulated. Overall\, the participants found the programme to be very good and useful. A selection of comments is posted below (quoted as written): \n“The session helped me to understand the role of the EU in the realm of non-proliferation and disarmament.” \n“It was an excellent introduction to the work that EU is doing in regards to Disarmament and non-proliferation. I had very little knowledge prior but this visit has set a good base that I will build on.” \n“It was extremely useful for a better understanding of the rules and functioning process of the main European institutions.” \nThe VCDNP extends its gratitude to the European External Action Service and the EU Council for their support and cooperation in organising the visit\, made possible thanks to the generous support of the European Union for the EUNPDC. \n\n\n  \n\n▶ The UN Disarmament Fellows’ Visit to Brussels – September 2023\n\nFrom 13 to 15 September 2023\, the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP)\, on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC)\, organised a visit to the seat of the European policy organs in Brussels for participants of the United Nations Programme of Fellowships on Disarmament. \nBrowse the visit’s programme here. \n\n \nUN Fellows and VCDNP staff at the European External Action Service with Marjolijn van Deelen (in green) \n\nThe visit of the UN Disarmament Fellows to Brussels\, which has taken place every year since 2018\, is aimed at introducing participants to the EU’s decision-making processes and policies on disarmament and non-proliferation. \nThis year\, the programme started with a visit to the European External Action Service (EEAS)\, where the Fellows were welcomed by Amb. Marjolijn van Deelen\, EU Special Envoy for Non-Proliferation and Disarmament. \n\n \n\nAt the EEAS\, the Fellows gained insights into the EU’s extensive involvement in international security\, non-proliferation\, and disarmament matters\, including countering the spread of weapons of mass destruction\, coordinating arms and dual-use export controls\, and formulating policies on outer space. Presentations were delivered by EEAS and European Commission experts from different offices. \n\n \nJose Torres\, Policy Officer in the Directorate General for Trade of the European Commission delivering a presentation \n\nFollowing briefings at the EEAS\, fellows were offered a guided tour of the Council premises where a wide array of significant events\, including EU summits\, multilateral summits\, and ministerial meetings are held. \nThe second day of the visit was dedicated to thematic presentations from experts at the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs\, NATO\, and the EUNPDC Network. \nEirini Lemos-Maniati\, Deputy Director of the Arms Control\, Disarmament\, and WMD Non-Proliferation Centre\, briefed the Fellows on NATO’s work in the field; Sigurd Schelstraete\, Director of Disarmament and Non-Proliferation at the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs\, offered a national perspective; and Dr. Sybille Bauer\, Chair of the EUNPD Consortium\, provided an overview of the Consortium’s history\, structure\, goals\, and activities. \n\n \n\nRaluca Csernatoni\, Louis Reitmann\, and Clémence Poirier\, respectively researchers at Carnegie Europe\, the VCDNP\, and the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI) and members of the EUNPDC Network\, provided insights on artificial intelligence\, the value of diversity for nuclear weapons policy\, as well as ballistic missile proliferation and cybersecurity. \n\n \n\nFellows were then offered tours of the Parlamentarium and the House of European History\, where they learned about the complexity and the decades-long processes that led to the creation of the European Union as well as the structure and functions of the EU policy-making bodies. \n\n \nUN Fellows and VCDNP staff at the European Council \n\nThe VCDNP would like to extend its gratitude to the EEAS and the EU Council for their generous support and cooperation in organizing this visit. \n\n\n  URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/un-fellowships-on-disarmament/ CATEGORIES:Education Programmes,UN disarmament fellows visit to Brussels ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/6.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20131004T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20131004T170000 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20171004T135308Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T104538Z UID:6168-1380873600-1380906000@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:EU Non-Proliferation and disarmament Internships DESCRIPTION:The EU Non-Proliferation Consortium will support 30 Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Internships in European think tanks between 2022 and 2025 (see COUNCIL DECISION (CFSP) 2025/889 of 12 May 2025). \nThe duration of each internship shall be 3 month (13 weeks). \nAll members of the European network of independent non-proliferation think-tanks are eligible as host institutes for an EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament internship. For each internship the host institute will be granted 3\,000 €. \nThe EU Non-Proliferation Consortium can provide limited subsidies (950 € / month) for a limited number of students  (min. requirement: BA) for the duration of the internship. \nHost institutes for an EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Internship must meet the following requirements: \n\nMembership in the European network of independent non-proliferation think-tanks\nAvailability of office space / working place for intern\nAt least one expert specialized in non-proliferation or disarmament affairs and corresponding EU policies\nAt least one expert must have teaching / tutoring experience and serve as the general supervisor\n\nFor further details\, please contact Niklas Schörnig (schoernig@hsfk.de) from the Peace Research Institute Frankfurt (PRIF) \nPlease note that this call is not directed to students\, but to research institutes and think tanks only \n\n\n\n\n\n\nNext Generation papers\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAt the end of their traineeship\, the EU Non-Proliferation Consortium interns are invited to publish relevant papers they have had the opportunity to write during their internship. These articles being published on this website are under their sole responsibility. \nFor further details\, please contact Benjamin Hautecouverture from the Fondation pour la recherche stratégique (FRS): b.hautecouverture@frstrategie.org \n\n  \n\n \nUN Security Council’s Waning Role in Addressing Nuclear Nonproliferation\, Doniyor Mutalov\, May 2025 \nPoursuit of Deterrence: The Inspiration Behind North Korea’s Nuclear Weapons Program\, Leo Eckel\, April 2024 \nARCHIVES URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/eu-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-internships/ CATEGORIES:Education Programmes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/thumb-01-1-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20131004T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20131004T170000 DTSTAMP:20260514T000030 CREATED:20171004T134804Z LAST-MODIFIED:20181014T203402Z UID:6164-1380873600-1380906000@nonproliferation.eu SUMMARY:Consortium Launches eLearning Course on Non-proliferation\, Disarmament and EU Policies DESCRIPTION:The eLearning course “EU Non-proliferation and Disarmament” covers all relevant aspects of the EU non-proliferation and disarmament agenda. \nIt aims to provide a comprehensive knowledge resource for practitioners and scholars interested in arms control\, non-proliferation and disarmament\, and EU policies in these fields. \nThe course was designed\, developed and launched by the EU Non-Proliferation Consortium and funded through the EU Council Decision CD 2014/129/CFSP of 10 March 2014. \nThe course consists of 15 Learning Units covering both non-conventional and conventional weapons\, and has an optional certificate section. 24 authors from 12 European countries and the EU contributed to the course\, which represents an open educational resource for all interested users world-wide. \n \nVisit nonproliferation-elearning.eu URL:https://nonproliferation.eu/evenement/consortium-launches-elearning-course-on-non-proliferation-disarmament-and-eu-policies/ CATEGORIES:Education Programmes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nonproliferation.eu/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/1.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR