The EU Non-Proliferation Consortium

Proliferation of Weapons at Land and Sea: VCDNP and IAI at Ludovika University
2024-12-04
On 4 December 2024, Federica Dall’Arche, Senior Research Associate at the VCDNP, and Paola Tessari, Senior Research Fellow at the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI), joined professor Erzsébet N. Rózsa and the faculty of the Ludovika University of Public Service at a public event aimed at engaging students and young scholars to raise awareness of arms control, non-proliferation, and disarmament issues. The event was organised in cooperation with the HUN-REN CERS Institute of World Economics in Budapest.

Federica Dall’Arche (right) and Paola Tessari (left)
During the first panel discussion, Ms. Dall’Arche and Ms. Tessari shared their experience as researchers and professionals in the field of arms control, non-proliferation, and disarmament. They also introduced the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC) – a group of six European research organisations, including the VCDNP and IAI – and the opportunities it offers to young professionals. Among these is the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative, an effort of the EUNPDC to encourage young women and the next generation to enter the non-proliferation, arms control, and disarmament field.

The discussion, titled “Weapons Proliferation at Land and at Sea”, saw the participation of current and former EUNPDC interns as well as faculty members of the Ludovika University of Public Service:
Gyula Speck, Assistant Lecturer and former EUNPDC intern, examined how Afghanistan’s enduring state fragility has facilitated the proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW), highlighting the complex interplay between weak governance and uncontrolled SALW flows and the need for tailored approaches to address such challenges. The presentation was based on the recent EUNPDC publication: SALW Proliferation and State Fragility.
Virág Novák-Varró, Assistant Lecturer, focused on the threats posed by landmines, using Afghanistan as a case study to illustrate their devastating impact. The presentation emphasised the importance of raising awareness through community engagement while stressing the need for innovative approaches. Ms. Novak-Varro highlighted that certain existing methods have inadvertently exposed especially children to greater risks. She stressed the importance of reformulating military strategies to ensure the protection of civilians. She also advocated for tailored games and exercises designed to teach children how to recognise and avoid landmines.

Right to left: Virág Novák-Varró, András Bartók and Gyula Speck
András Bartók, Associate Lecturer and current EUNPDC intern, focused on weapons proliferation in the 21st century within the naval domain, shedding light on its implications for global security. The presentation emphasised the evolving nature of maritime threats, including the challenges posed by advanced weapons technologies and the increased accessibility of naval armaments. Mr. Bartók highlighted the need for enhanced international cooperation and robust regulatory frameworks to curb proliferation, while also addressing gaps in existing approaches to ensure that they effectively tackle emerging risks in the maritime sphere.
The panel discussion sparked a great level of curiosity among students, who asked questions, demonstrating a genuine interest to learn more.
Both panels were moderated by Erzsébet N. Rózsa, Professor at Ludovika University andAdvisor at the HUN-REN CERS Institute of World Economics.
The visit was organised in the framework of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative. The YWNGI, an effort of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium, is possible thanks to the generous support of theEuropean Union. The VCDNP and IAI thank the HUN-REN CERS Institute of World Economics and the Ludovika University of Public Service for hosting this event.

Thirteenth EU Non-proliferation and Disarmament Conference
2024-11-12 - 2024-11-13
On 12 and 13 November 2024, the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI), on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium, organised the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Conference. The Conference, now in its 13th edition, is a major international event that brings together non-proliferation and disarmament experts from governmental and non-governmental institutions around the world each year.
The 2024 edition addressed many topics of central importance to the work of the EU, in particular for the European External Action Service (EEAS), as well as several pressing issues in arms control, non-proliferation and disarmament. The EU Conference on Non-Proliferation and Disarmament once again proved to be a central event for the international discussion on the future of arms control, non-proliferation and disarmament.
It also helped reaffirm the EU’s strong commitment to a rules-based global order and demonstrated the increased awareness of EU non-proliferation and disarmament policies among government officials, academics and civil society representatives from third countries. Furthermore, the debate explored new ways and means to enhance capabilities in areas of the world with limited expertise in countering threats from SALW, weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery.
Finally, as every year, the conference served to highlight the role played by European think tanks specialising in non-proliferation and disarmament and the efforts undertaken by the EU Consortium to promote and coordinate their work.

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COMPREHENSIVE REPORT (ENGLISH)

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EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Next Generation Workshop 2024
2024-11-12
On 12 November 2024, the IAI, as a member of the EUNPD Consortium, organised the EU Next Generation Nonproliferation and Disarmament Workshop. The annual event, in its seventh edition, was attended by young academics in the field of nonproliferation, arms control and disarmament, who were selected through a call for applications. During the event, participants presented their ideas on how to address the main challenges in this field. In particular, the following themes were addressed this year:
– The Weapons of Mass Destruction Free Zone in the Middle East: Current State and Prospects
– China’s advances in artificial intelligence and the implications for regional arms control in South Asia
– The expansion of nuclear programmes in the Gulf region
– The nuclear risk reduction agenda
– The role of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) in promoting international peace and security and exploring how the CTBT can support and strengthen the NPT regime
– Evolution of the use of Russian hypersonic missiles in the Russia-Ukraine conflict
– An IAEA for artificial intelligence? Lessons from nuclear non-proliferation for international governance of artificial intelligence
– Trust and Verification in Space Arms Control: Different Perspectives and New Approaches
The presentations were followed by questions and comments from other participants, including EU representatives.

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Engagement Opportunities in Arms Control, Disarmament, and Non-Proliferation for Young Professionals and Students
2024-10-25
On 25 October 2024, the Building on the success of the first edition of the event held in October 2022, the webinar informed participants about youth-led groups and initiatives in the field and offered a platform to connect and network.
Participants benefited from presentations by five organizations and their initiatives: The British American Security Information Council (BASIC), the European Leadership Network (ELN), the EU Nonproliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC), the International Student/Young Pugwash (ISYP), and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA). The organizations shared information about their activities and youth programmes and offered opportunities for learning, research, and engagement on a wide range of issues within the arms control, disarmament, and non-proliferation field.
The event was organised within the framework of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI), established under the EUNPDC.

Left to right: Sanaa Alvira, Leadership Team Member at International Student/Young Pugwash, and Federica Dall’Arche, Senior Research Associate at the VCDNP
Opening remarks were delivered by Federica Dall’Arche, Senior Research Associate at the VCDNP, and Sanaa Alvira, Leadership Team Member at ISYP. Both highlighted the importance of engaging all generations and people with diverse national and cultural backgrounds to promote inclusion and diversity in the arms control, disarmament, and non-proliferation field.
Younger Generation Leaders Network (YGLN) of the ELN

Nikita Gryazin, Policy Fellow at the European Leadership Network (ELN)
Nikita Gryazin, Policy Fellow at the European Leadership Network (ELN), presented ELN’s Younger Generation Leaders Network (YGLN), a youth group which consists of 150 members from over 40 countries, which this year celebrates it 10th anniversary. YGLN holds regular events like “YGLN Wednesdays,” where members exchange and connect. YGLN also publishes analyses and commentary on international affairs by its members and holds an annual gathering for in-person engagement. The network comprises four distinct groups and is led by an executive committee, helping to shape its members into future decision-makers. More information on YGLN and membership is available on the YGLN website.
The EU Nonproliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC)

Manuel Herrera, Research Fellow at the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI)
Manuel Herrera, Research Fellow at IAI, provided an overview of the next generation activities organised by the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC). The EUNPDC organizes and coordinates activities for a network of over 110 research centres and universities all over Europe. One of the flagship programmes of the Consortium is the YWNGI, which offers events online and on university campuses in Europe. A key part of the Initiative is an annual mentorship programme for young women. Other activities include the Next Generation Workshop – an opportunity for emerging experts to showcase their research ahead of the EUNPDC Annual Conference in Brussels. Herrera also offered an overview of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament E-learning courses, a comprehensive library of interactive online courses on arms control, disarmament, and non-proliferation issues offered by the Consortium and presented the Consortium’s internship programme. More information about the Consortium can be found on the EUNPDC website.
The Youth4Disarmament Initiative of UNODA

Marykate Monaghan, Associate Political Affaris Officer at the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA)
The Youth4Disarmament initiative, organised by the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), was introduced by Marykate Monaghan. She provided an overview of the initiative’s work to empower young people to champion and participate in disarmament efforts, highlighting programmes, including capacity-building workshops, creative projects, and the “Advocates in Motion (AIM) Campaign” to integrate youth perspectives into global policy-making. The initative also includes the Youth Leader Fund, a comprehensive programme running through 2030, featuring online learning, a study tour to Hiroshima and Nagasaki, mentorship, and networking for young advocates. Additionally, she encouraged youth engagement through online events, creative advocacy, joining disarmament-focused groups, and accessing educational resources like UNODA’s Disarmament Education Dashboard. More information can be found on the Youth4Disarmament website.
Emerging Voices Network (EVN) of BASIC

Declan Penrose, Policy Fellow at the British American Security Information Council (BASIC)
The Emerging Voices Network, which was introduced by Declan Penrose, Policy Fellow at the British American Security Information Council (BASIC), is a digital, global network of young experts and practitioners working across nuclear issues. The network emphasises the importance of cross-regional and cross-disciplinary collaboration and organises side events at international conferences, such as NPT Review Conferences, and publishes an annual series of policy papers, written by working groups of emerging nuclear experts from around the world. More information, including on ways to participate, can be found on the EVN website.
International Student/Young Pugwash (ISYP)

Kseniia Pirnavskaia, Deputy Director at International Student/Young Pugwash
The work of ISYP, a global, interdisciplinary network of students, young professionals, and national groups, was presented by Deputy Director Kseniia Pirnavskaia. She explained how ISYP covers a wide range of topics related to existential risk, including climate change, emerging technologies, and nuclear weapons. with the aim of nurturing understanding and build personal connections for peace-promoting policy-making. More information on ISYP and on how to participate is available on the ISYP website.

Event participants and organisers
Panellists also shared their personal experiences and career journeys, entering and navigating the field, emphasising the challenges and rewards they encountered.
The lively discussion following the presentations touched upon many topics, including work-life balance, mental health, the inclusion of people with disabilities, as well as gender and geographical barriers, among others. The rich conversation offered practical insights for young professionals aspiring to make a meaningful impact in the field.
Closing remarks were delivered by Paola Tessari, Senior Researcher at IAI, and Kseniia Pirnavskaia, Deputy Director at ISYP, who shared information on additional opportunities available in the field and thanked the panellists for sharing helpful advice and guidance.

Launch of the 2024 Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme
2024-09-18
Launch of the 2024 Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme
On 18 September 2024, 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 4th edition of Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (YWNPD) Mentorship Programme.
The Mentorship Programme, established in 2021 and organised in the framework of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC), pairs 20 young women (mentees), chosen through a highly competitive selection process, with well-established experts in the field (mentors). Mentors and mentees engage in a mentoring relationship that envisions, among other things, regular video or in-person meetings. Mentees are also offered an opportunity to attend conferences, seminars, social events, and other activities, to benefit from networking and career development opportunities.

VCDNP Executive Director Elena K. Sokova delivering welcome remarks
The launch event was opened by the VCDNP Executive Director Elena K. Sokova. Two former mentees, Veerle Moyson and Lara Maria Guedes, and one continuing mentor, Renata H. Dalaqua, shared their personal experiences of participating in previous editions of the programme.

Renata H. Dalaqua, Programme Lead for Gender & Disarmament at UNIDIR, sharing her experience as a mentor
After a round of introductions, VCDNP Senior Research Associate Federica Dall’Arche and Paola Tessari, Senior Researcher at IAI, offered an overview of the programme, discussing expectations and opportunities for mentors and mentees as well as upcoming activities, including the EUNPDC Annual Conference in Brussels. Karolina Proprentner, Office and Events Manager at the VCDNP, introduced a social media spotlight campaign, which will feature mentors and mentees of the new cohort and present their backgrounds and interests to a wider audience in the non-proliferation and disarmament field.
The VCDNP and IAI look forward to working with this cohort of bright and motivated mentees and thank returning and new mentors for generously volunteering their time and expertise to the 2024 edition of the programme.
The Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (YWNPD) Mentorship Programme is made possible thanks to the generous financial support of the European Union.

The Purposes of Nuclear Arms Control: Achievements and Failures
2024-07-02 08:00 - 17:00 (Europe/Paris)
Dr. Ulrich Kühn & Tim Thies
Institute for Peace Research and Security Policy at the University of Hamburg (IFSH)
Summer 2024
For more than a decade, nuclear arms control is in a crisis that saw the stagnation and even collapse of important arms control processes. At the same time, Russia’s war against Ukraine demonstrates that cooperative arms control regimes cannot stop determined aggressors. Against this background, the block course addresses the questions which objectives states can pursue through nuclear arms control, which purpose can nuclear arms control serve in an era of strategic rivalry, and which hopes connected to arms control have been disappointed in the past.

Level: Students
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The Global Governance of Nuclear Weapons
2024-07-02 08:00 - 17:00
Jannis Kappelmann M.A., Researcher and PhD Student at University of Hamburg
Summer 2024
Ever since they were built, the Global Governance of Nuclear Weapons has been a contentious topic both among politicians and political scientists. With realists frequently stressing the deterring power of nuclear weapons, liberal scholars referring to the resilience of the regime of nuclear weapons governance and critical scholars increasingly emphasising the humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons use, the topic is a major playground for theory application. The course will make use of a variety of historic and current cases to work both theoretically and empirically. From Iran to North Korea, from the India-Pakistan conflict over the Cold War up to the recent Nuclear Ban Treaty adopted at the United Nations, the course aims to cover a broad range
issues.

Level: Students
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Gender Perspectives, Feminist Theories and Nuclear Weapons
2024-07-02 08:00 - 17:00
Jannis Kappelmann M.A., Researcher and PhD Student at University of Hamburg
Summer 2024
Historically, the Global Governance of Nuclear Weapons has relied on gendered assumptions, practices and speech acts – and it does to this day. Feminist activists, since the very beginning of the so-called ‘nuclear age’, were among the staunchest opposition against nuclear weapons, as they would be incompatible with Feminist values, placing marginalised groups and individuals in the centre of their consideration. From this persistent activism, research on gender perspectives, feminist theories and nuclear weapons followed – focussing on language (e.g. Cohn), the legal framework (e.g. Biswas), (post-)colonial issues (e.g. Teiwa) or activism itself (e.g. Acheson). In this seminar, we want to dive into these diverse perspectives and explore why the global governance of nuclear weapons has always been a case for feminist engagement. With an intersectional aspiration, this seminar should provide both tangible examples of the application of feminist theory as well as insights into the global governance of nuclear weapons as part of the international order, or the governance international peace and security more specifically.

Level: Students
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Thirteenth EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consultative Meeting
2024-06-10 - 2024-06-13
The thirteenth consultative meeting of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium was a research, reflection, and exchange event with two distinct parts.
The first part of our meeting was devoted to the impact of major current factors in the evolution of non-proliferation and disarmament issues: Russia’s aggressive foreign policy, emerging and disruptive technologies, the assertion of Chinese power, and the multidimensional crisis affecting the Middle East region. The implementation and universalisation of the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel landmines will also be addressed.
The second part looked at general trends and specific updates: the global movement of arms transfers, the fight against diversion (technical and political tools, and the role of Industry), and the latest issues in the use of artificial intelligence in military matters.
As in previous years, theoretical, institutional, political, and industrial approaches were combined to provide the most useful responses to the new security challenges. To make our sessions as interactive as possible, the Mentimeter tool was used in a very integrated way for each of the sessions.
Seven interviews were conducted on the margins of the thirteenth Consultative Meeting.

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Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme – 3rd Edition Final Meeting
2024-05-10 08:00 - 17:00
Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme – 3rd Edition Final Meeting
The VCDNP and IAI convened the final meeting of the third edition of their Mentorship Programme for young women in non-proliferation and disarmament.
Participants of the final meeting of the third edition of the Mentorship Programme
On 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.
This 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.
The 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.

“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!”
–Mentee
The 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).
Elena K. Sokova and Stephan Klement

The event was held online and divided into three sessions.
The 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.
Presentations were delivered by:

Lara Maria Guedes, Intern at Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)
Ksenija Trajkovska, Analyst at Fenix Insight LTD
Clara Wend, Student at Technical University Vienna
Beatrice Aubert, Trainee at EEAS

“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!”
–Mentor
The 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).
Elizabeth Bone’s presentation

“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”
–Mentee
The 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).

Open Source Intelligence and Public Speaking Workshops: Skill Building opportunities for YWNGI Mentorship Programme participants
2024-01-15
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.
The 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.

The 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.
A 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.

The 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.
Through 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.

More information:
Agenda of the outreach event
The EUNPDC Consortium and its work
Additional Opportunities for the Next Generation
The 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.

Twelfth EU Non-proliferation and Disarmament Conference
2023-12-04 14:00 - 2023-12-05 18:30 | Brussels – Belgium
The twelfth EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Conference (EUNPDC) was held on 4 and 5 December 2023 in a hybrid format at the Thon Hotel Brussels City Center in Brussels (Belgium). The Conference was organised by the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI) on behalf of the EU Network of Independent Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Think Tanks, gathering experts on non-proliferation, disarmament, arms control and conventional weapons from public institutions, governments, international organisations, independent think tanks, and civil society. Over 400 experts from more than 50 countries – EU members, associated states, and third countries – attended the conference in person.
Browse the agenda
The Conference, organised within the framework of the activities carried out by the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium, is funded by the European Union.
Access the Brief Conference Report in: EN | AR | SP | FR | RU | ZH
Watch the replay of the sessions on our YouTube channel:

EU’s Non Proliferation and Disarmament Agenda
Nuclear Proliferation and Disarmament Challenges
Chemical Disarmament after the Fifth Review Conference of the CWC
Outer Space: Realm of Conflict or Cooperation?
Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Warfare
Diversion of Conventional Arms
Conflict Dynamics and Security Cooperation in East Asia
Bio-Technology and Weaponization Risks
Testimonies of Non-Proliferation and Disarmament – A Conversation with the Next Generation
The War in Ukraine and the Future of Arms Control in Europe
Arms Control and Global Power Dynamics

COMPREHENSIVE REPORT

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EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Next Generation Workshop 2023
2023-12-04 08:00 - 12:30 | Brussels – Belgium
On 04 December 2023, the IAI, as a member of the EUNPD Consortium, organised the EU Next Generation Nonproliferation and Disarmament Workshop. The annual event, in its sixth edition, was attended by young academics in the field of non-proliferation, arms control and disarmament, selected through a call for papers. During the event, participants presented their ideas on how to address the main challenges in this field.

In particular, the following topics were addressed this year:
– China’s expansion of its fissile material stockpiles
– Cooperation to Counter Missile Proliferation Risks between Europe and Japan
– Strategic concerns vis-à-vis Taiwan
– Behavioral analysis to tackle challenges in the NPT framework
– The Middle East WMDFZ project
– The Influence of Nonproliferation Regime on the Civil-led Nuclear Programs of Global South Emerging Powers
– The use of blockchain technologies to enforce chemical weapons norms
– New and Emerging Technologies and Arms Control in the Biological domain
– Public attitudes towards lethal autonomous weapons
The presentations were followed by questions and comments from other participants, including EU representatives.
Browse the programme below:

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Call for participation - EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Next Generation Workshop 2023
2023-12-04
On 4 December 2023, the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI), on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium, will organize the annual EU Non-proliferation and Disarmament Next Generation Workshop. Young students and professionals, selected through a competitive process, will discuss challenging issues in the arms control, non-proliferation and disarmament field and present fresh ideas and views on how to address them. Presentations will be followed by comments from other participants and an open debate.
Applicants must submit their candidacy by 15 June 2023. For details and applications: eunpdc(at)iai.it

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The Nuclear Dimensions of the War against Ukraine
2023-10-18
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.
Titled “The Nuclear Dimensions of the War against Ukraine”, the event included two panels.
The 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.
Speakers included (in order of appearance):

Ettore 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;

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;

Elena 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.

The 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.
The panel featured (in order of appearance):

Manuel 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;

Federica 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;

From the left: Manuel Herrera, Martin Senn, Federica Dall’Arche
Both panels were moderated by Martin Senn, Professor at the University of Innsbruck.

More information:
Agenda of the outreach event
The EUNPDC Consortium and its work
Additional Opportunities for the Next Generation
The 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.

Launch of the 2023 Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme
2023-09-20 08:00 - 17:00
Launch of the 2023 Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme
On 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.
The 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.

Participants of the launch event
The 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.
Three 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.

Federica 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.
A round of introductions of all participants allowed the organizers, mentors, and mentees to get to know each other better.
The 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.
The Agenda of the event can be found here!

Twelfth Consultative Meeting of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium
2023-09-12 00:00 - 2023-09-15 23:59
The 12th Consultative Meeting of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (EUNPD) Consortium was held on 12 and 15 June 2023.
Organised by the Fondation pour la recherche stratégique (FRS), the meeting focused on the European angle of the current topics of debate: interests
of the EU, impacts of risks and threats on European security interests, and common policies. In addition, the Meeting focused on technical, operational, and strategic approaches to the questions posed, trying to step back from the current debates to give them analytical depth.
The eleventh consultative meeting (the year before) was devoted to a review of multilateral control export regimes. The 15 June 2023 meeting extended this reflection by focusing on European actions in support of EU’s own policy goals as well as of the existing major multilateral treaties and mechanisms to fight against diversion and illicit trafficking of conventional weapons, the control of transfer of dual-use and emerging goods and technologies against the backdrop of present security challenges, and the current normative approaches to the technological debate on weaponisation of emerging technologies, to
identify potential gaps in strategic trade control and ways to address them.
The participants were encouraged to draw conclusions to inform the upcoming review of Common Position 944/2008 defining common rules governing control of exports of military technology and equipment, and present works of the Dual-Use Working Party. As far as non-proliferation and disarmament are concerned, the12 June 2023 meeting focused on nuclear, ballistic and space issues in relation to the current major technological and strategic challenges: hypervelocity and increasing conventional penetration capabilities, dual systems, integration of command-and-control systems, multi-domain approaches. These challenges were explored in a few specific case studies: strategic instability in North-East Asia, the Iranian nuclear and ballistic issue, the dynamics of action-reaction in Asia-Pacific around the case of the AUKUS partnership.

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Biodefense Strategy
2023-08-31 08:00 - 17:00
Gregory D. Koblentz – George Mason University
Fall 2023
This lecture introduces students to the most important literature on biodefense that has emerged in recent years. It combines a variety of literary works in the fields of social sciences, global health security and nonproliferation in order to facilitate a contemporary approach to biological warfare and its health hazards, as well as its security implications.
Gregory D. Koblentz is an associate professor and director of the Biodefense Graduate Program at George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government and a member of the Scientist Working Group on Biological and Chemical Security at the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation in Washington, DC.
Level: Undergraduate
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Fundamentals of Arms Control
2023-07-15 08:00 - 17:00
James W. Davis
Fundamentals of Arms Control
University of St. Gallen
Spring 2023
This lecture provides an overview about key literature of late 20th-century arms control, aiming to establish a profound understanding of fundamental ideas and strategies that advanced arms control efforts between adversarial nations during the Cold War. Subsequently, the lecture shifts focus to the contemporary challenges facing arms control in the early 21st century, stemming from the declining commitment of states to this discipline. Since students of this course aim to follow a career in practice, the readings are a mix of academic and more policy-oriented articles.

Level: Postgraduate
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Issues in nuclear security policy
2023-07-13 08:00 - 17:00
Prof. Dr. MUSTAFA KİBAROĞLU
MEF University
Spring 2023
This course introduces undergraduate students of Political Science and International Relations to the existing and emerging threats posed to International Security by Nuclear Weapons and their proliferation. Core topics of this seminar include the proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and their delivery vehicles, the current status of the nuclear Non-proliferation regime, military and political implications of Iran’s nuclear program for the Middle East; India’s and Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities and many more questions regarding Nuclear Security topics.
This course is supported by “The Stanton Foundation”, created by Dr. Frank Stanton, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA with a grant offered to Prof. Kibaroğlu in 2015 as part of its “Course Development Program” in the field of Nuclear Security Studies.

Level: Undergraduate
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Conflicts in the Digital Age: Information Operations and Cyber Warfare
2023-06-22 08:00 - 17:00
Dr. Michael Raska/ S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University Singapore
Winter 2022/23
This course offers an introductory view on the evolving concepts, processes, and debates of information and cyber conflicts whether in political, military, socio-economic, and intelligence domains that are shaping international security. The goal is to provide students with an overall but solid knowledge of cyber and information operations and to encourage them to find their own personal interest in the broad variety of topics these areas offer.
Specifically, the first half of the course is devoted primarily to excavating the historical, theoretical, and conceptual components of cyber and information operations. The second half of the course then focuses on particular case studies of both state and non-state actors – how they conceptualize, plan, integrate, and exploit varying cyber-enabled means to advance their political objectives. The highlight of the course will be the SIMULATION EXERCISE; the “game” will focus on the use of cyber strategic interactions and political decision-making in a crisis situation.
Dr Michael Raska is currently Assistant Professor and Coordinator of the Military Transformations Programme at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. His research interests focus on defense and military innovation, the effects of emerging technologies and open source-based intelligence assessments on emerging threats.
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Weapons Of Mass Destruction Counter Proliferation: Interdiction, Deterrence And Defense
2023-06-22 08:00 - 17:00
Paris School of International Affairs/Fouad El Khatib
Spring 2023
This course examines core issues of the Counter-Proliferation of WMDs. In order to prepare students of this class for real professions in the fields of International Security, most lessons are paired with a case study that helps to understand the dynamics of WMDs, related missile programs, networks and international implications.
Fouad El Khatib displays a robust expertise in governmental advisory and diplomacy for International Security topics. Among previous assignments, he was UN Chief inspector for the disarmament of Iraq, Special adviser for counter-proliferation at the SGDSN (Office of the French Prime minister) and more recently Deputy-Director for Regional Affairs at the General Directorate for International Affairs and Strategy issues (DGRIS) of the French ministry of defense.
Level: Undergraduate
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Young Women and Next Generation Initiative in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme – 2nd Edition Final Meeting
2023-05-15 08:00 - 17:00
Young Women and Next Generation Initiative in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme – 2nd Edition Final Meeting

On 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.
The 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.
“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.”
2023 Mentee
The 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.

Stefan Tressing (EEAS) delivering opening remarks

The event was held online and divided into three sessions.
The 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.

Presentation by Elin Bergner (Open Nuclear Network)

Presentations were delivered by:

Insaf Senouci (Sciences Po Grenoble)
Stephanie Verlaan (EuropeanUniversity Viadrina)
Veerle Moyson (UNODA Vienna Office)
Jennet Charyyeva (Bilkent University)
Amanda Pereira (Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo)
Elin Bergner (Open Nuclear Network)
Natalina Popat (Oxford University)
Irene Palomo (European Research Council Executive Agency – ERCEA)

Presentation by Jennet Charyyeva (Bilkent University)

“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!”
2023 Mentor

Second panel discussion

The 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).

Presentation by Elizabeth Bone (MIIS)

“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.”
2023 Mentee
The 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).
Closing remarks were delivered by Sybille Bauer (SIPRI and Chair of the EUNPD Consortium).

May 2023, WMD Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Pathways: intensive online introductory course for students of nuclear and aerospace engineering disciplines
2023-05-02 - 2023-05-05
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).
The 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.
The 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.

Eligibility and application
The 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.
The 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.
Applications 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.
Please 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.
Selections will be finalized by 21 April 2023, and applicants will be informed thereafter.
All inquiries about the course should be directed to Vitaly Fedchenko, Senior Researcher with the SIPRI Weapons of Mass Destruction Programme.

Contact person
Vitaly Fedchenko, Senior Researcher : fedchenko@sipri.org

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
2023-04-21
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
On 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.
The 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.

The 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:

Sir Lawrence Freedman (King’s College London)
Nina Tannenwald (Brown University)
Harald Müller (Peace Research Institute Frankfurt/PRCP)
Hanna Notte (VCDNP)

From the left: Michal Smetana, Sir Lawrence Freedman, Nina Tannenwald, Hanna Notte and Harald Müller

The second panel, dedicated to authoritarian regimes in the Middle East and North Africa, featured:

Noura Wahby (American University in Cairo)
Tereza Jermanová (PRCP)
Jakub Koláček (Charles University)

The 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.

From the left: Jan Daniel, Noura Wahby, Jakub Koláček, and Tereza JermanovÁ

The 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:

Paola Tessari (IAI)
Federica Dall’Arche (VCDNP)

From the left: Paola Tessari and Federica Dall’Arche

Harald Müller, one of the original co-founder of the EUNPD Consortium, also contributed to the panel, sharing his experience in establishing the Consortium.

Harald Müller talking about the EUNPD Consortium

All panels were followed by Q&A sessions.
The presentation of the event is available on : The EUNPD Consortium and its work

For further informations on Youth opportunities linked with the consortium activities : Additional Opportunities for the Next Generation
For more information, please refer to the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative website or to the Event Page

Nuclear Weapons and Artificial Intelligence: Understanding the Nexus and Mitigating Risks
2023-03-16 17:00 - 18:00 | Online
Nuclear Weapons and Artificial Intelligence: Understanding the Nexus and Mitigating Risks

The 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).
The event will feature Marina Favaro, Senior Policy Analyst at Anthropic.
The 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.
The 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.
The working language will be English.
Speaker:

Marina Favaro, Senior Policy Analyst, Anthropic

VCDNP Executive Director Elena K. Sokova will offer welcome remarks and moderate the event.
We kindly ask you to RSVP using the online registration form below.
The opinions/views expressed by the speaker in this event do not necessarily reflect the opinions/views of the VCDNP.

Registration and Questions
We kindly ask you to RSVP using the online registration form.
Should 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.

Opportunities, Threats and Proliferation Challenges deriving from Bio-Technology and Bio-Engineering
2023-01-16 | Online
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.
The webinar, open to the public but particularly intended for students and young specialists , featured remarks from:

Dr 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);
Dr Filippa Lentzos, Associate Professor in Science & International Security at King’s College London; and
Dr James Revill, Head of the WMD and Space Security Programmes at the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR).

The 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.
In 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.
Speakers also illustrated career opportunities in the field of biological non-proliferation and disarmament.

From the top left: Ettore Greco, Federica Dall’Arche, Dr. Angela Kane, Dr. Filippa Lentzos, Dr. James Revill
The 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.
A full recording of the event can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgBdPkKm7tQ

"Star Wars“: Outer Space and Spaceflight in Peace and Conflict Studies
2023-01-02 08:00 - 17:00
University of Duisburg-Essen/Arne Sönnichsen
Winter 2022/23
This Seminar supplemented the Lecture “International Relations and Global Governance” at University Duisburg-Essen. It connects fundamental knowledge about Peace- and Conflict Studies with Outer Space and Spaceflight. In order to understand how new technological developments influence wars and conflicts, the development of Space Technologies was exemplified for this seminar. With the help of several case studies, this seminar aimed to first contextualize Space as a geopolitical area of conflict, while secondly analyzing the relevance of Space for conflicts on earth. This lecture was held in german.
Level: Undergraduate
Download Syllabus

December 2022, SIPRI and EUNPDC co-host intensive course on ‘WMD Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Pathways’
2022-12-06 - 2022-12-08
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.
Held 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.
Participants 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.
SIPRI and the EUNPDC will continue to develop courses of this kind and host them twice a year.

Contact : Vitaly Fedchenko

Eleventh EU Non-proliferation and Disarmament Conference
2022-11-14 14:00 - 2022-11-15 18:30
SUMMARY REPORT
Download the report, available in the following languages: ENG, FRA, SPA, ARA, RUS, CIN
The eleventh EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Conference (EUNPDC) was held on 14 and 15 November 2022 in a hybrid format at the SQUARE – Brussels Convention Centre in Brussels (Belgium). The Conference was organised by the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI) on behalf of the EU Network of Independent Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Think Tanks, gathering experts on non-proliferation, disarmament, arms control and conventional weapons from public institutions, governments, international organisations, independent think tanks and civil society. Over 250 experts from more than 50 countries – EU members, associated states and third countries – attended the conference in person.
The EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Conference is one of the flagship events of the European Network of Independent Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Think Tanks. The Network was established in July 2010 by the Council of the European Union to support the implementation of the EU Strategy Against the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction. The Network, which also focuses on the implementation of the EU Strategy Against Illicit Firearms, Small Arms & Light Weapons & Their Ammunition, brings together more than 100 research entities and is coordinated by a Consortium of six institutes: La Fondation pour la recherche stratégique (FRS), International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI), Peace Research Institute Frankfurt (HSFK – PRIF), Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) and the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP).
Since 2012, the Annual Conference has been one of the key non-proliferation and disarmament meetings worldwide. It has contributed to promoting strategic discussion on measures to combat the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their delivery systems, as well as to address challenges related to conventional weapons, including their illicit trade and the excessive accumulation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) and their ammunition. The 2022 edition addressed numerous topics of central importance for the work of the EU, notably the European External Action Service (EEAS), as well as several pressing arms control, non-proliferation and disarmament issues.
The participants were welcomed by Ettore Greco, Executive Vice President of the Istituto Affari Internazionali, who started his speech by explaining the overall mission of the Consortium and the progress it has made in consolidating a broad network of European think tanks working on non-proliferation and disarmament. He then stressed that the Consortium had made a constant effort to improve its activities, such as expanding and diversifying educational activities, involving new areas of expertise, developing its outreach and communication strategy, and undertaking new initiatives to promote the active involvement of the younger generation, in particular young women. He then noted that the 2022 Conference would focus on the war in Ukraine, with a plenary session specifically dedicated to the implications and perspectives of the war. He stated that there would also be two plenary sessions on the main priorities of the international non-proliferation and disarmament agenda. Finally, he also announced two sets of parallel sessions covering topics such as cyber-attacks, the militarisation of outer space, biotechnology, missile proliferation and lethal autonomous weapons.
The Conference was opened by the Managing Director for Common Security and Defence Policy and Crisis Response of the EEAS, Benedikta Von Seherr-Thoss. She emphasised that European security had dramatically changed in one year and there had been, more broadly, a considerable deterioration of the international security environment. Nevertheless, the biggest reason for concern by far is, she said, Russia. The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, she noted, hampered the EU’s work in most multilateral cooperation forums such as at the NPT Review Conference. She added that the EU will continue to work on pressing issues related to WMD, not only nuclear but also chemical and biological weapons, and mentioned the need to face the deteriorating situation in various regional and security environments such as the Middle East and North East Asia. Finally, she mentioned the challenges associated with the proliferation of conventional weapons in the context of Russia’s war against Ukraine. She ended her intervention by emphasising that the EU’s role and commitment are crucial to tackle all these challenges.
The remainder of the conference was articulated into four plenary sessions and six parallel sessions which discussed a variety of issues such as the future of arms control and international security; the challenges to the NPT regime; the evolving threats of biological weapons; WMD threats in the Middle East; lethal autonomous weapons; cyber-security; responsible behaviour in outer space; missile technology proliferation; the Ukrainian war and weapons proliferation; and the implementation of the EU’s non-proliferation and disarmament agenda.
The Special Envoy for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation at the EEAS, Marjolijn van Deelen, stressed the radical change in the global and European security architecture. The current non-proliferation and disarmament regimes served very well in the past as they were instrumental in preventing destabilising arms races and reducing WMD threats over the past decades. Entire categories of WMD were outlawed and robust control mechanisms were set up, and as imperfect as they were, they gave a sense of stability. However, the present reality is different: we are witnessing a paradigm shift, not only in the WMD domain but also beyond. Practically, all major agreements have been challenged or violated. In the diplomatic jargon, this is attributable to “growing tensions between major powers and worsening of international security”, but this is just a way of saying that some States appear to be willing to deconstruct the global security order in the hope of gaining a relative advantage.
The UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Izumi Nakamitsu, concurred that there was a visible shift towards a more turbulent and unstable future. The world is increasingly divided, she noted, distrust is replacing dialogue and the relations between nuclear armed States are deteriorating. She mentioned five objectives that need to be pursued in this context as a matter of priority: first, consolidate global norms against the use and possession of WMD; second, further work towards the elimination of chemical weapons; third, activate new instruments to cope with the dramatically worsening biological threats; fourth, advance the analysis of cyber and outer space as potential domains of conflict; and finally, work towards a positive outcome at the RevCon of the programme of action on small and light weapons. She closed her remarks by stating that in order to tackle the current challenges, there is the need to work with a multiplicity of actors, and added that the complementarity between the EU and the UNODA is grounded in a mutual conviction and commitment to a multilateral approach to disarmament and non-proliferation.
The 2022 EUNPD Conference also featured key interventions from high-ranking officials such as Wendin D. Smith, Director of NATO’s Arms Control, Disarmament, and Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Non-proliferation Centre (ACDC); Deepti Choubey, Director of Knowledge Management and HR, Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO); Gustavo Zlauvinen, President-designate of the Tenth Review Conference for the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT); Jacek Bylica, Chief of Cabinet at the Director General’s Office, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); Daniel Feakes, Chief of the Implementation Support Unit (ISU) of the Biological Weapons Convention within the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA); Leonardo Bencini, President-designate of the Ninth Review Conference of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC); Stephan Klement, Head of Delegation to the International Organisations in Vienna and EU Permanent Representative to the UN Organisations in Vienna, IAEA and CTBTO; Beyza Unal, Head of Science, Technology and International Security Unit at the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA); Seraina Frost, Deputy Head of Export Control Policy at SECO and Chair of MTCR Technical Expert Meeting; Heike Gerstbrein, Head of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) Operations & Election Observation Unit; Stefan Tressing, Deputy Head of Division, Disarmament, Non-Proliferation and Arms Export Control, European External Action Service (EEAS); along with renowned academics, researchers and government officials from around the world.
The final session featured interventions by two young scholars: Emily Faux, mentee at the 2021 edition of the Young Women in Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Mentorship Programme (YWNGI), and Tim Thies, researcher in the Arms Control and Emerging Technologies Project at the Institute for Peace Research and Security Policy at the University of Hamburg (IFSH) and speaker at the 2021 Next Generation Workshop. Both emphasised the need to raise public awareness about the potentially destructive effects of nuclear weapons and to include young people in order to promote new expertise on arms control, in fields such as cybersecurity and AI, and to foster greater generational diversity.
In her concluding remarks, Sibylle Bauer, Chair of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium and Director of Studies, Armament and Disarmament at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) emphasised the need to be open to new ideas and unorthodox solutions, and to think outside of the box. She noted that in the last five years the Conference had ensured a gender balance in terms of chairs, speakers and participants. She added that a greater dose of optimism was required in evaluating developments in the non-proliferation, arms control and disarmament field. In view of this, there is a need to switch to a problem-solving mode and think more deeply about concrete solutions to the new challenges. She then spoke about the need, in this age of disinformation and misinformation, to build trust between people in the sharing and dissemination of data and other sources of information and analysis. In this regard, she stressed the importance of independent research and the work done by the network of independent non-proliferation and disarmament think tanks. She concluded by calling for intensified efforts to bring a greater diversity of disciplines and approaches into the non-proliferation and disarmament field.
The EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Conference proved to be, once again, a central event for the international discussion on the future of arms control, non-proliferation and disarmament. It also contributed to reaffirming the strong EU commitment towards a rules-based global order and showed the increased awareness of EU non-proliferation and disarmament policies among government officials, academics and civil society representatives of third countries. Moreover, the debate explored new ways and means of improving capacities in areas of the world with limited expertise in countering the threats stemming from SALW, WMD and their means of delivery. Finally, as every year, the Conference served as a venue to highlight the role played by European think tanks specialised in non-proliferation and disarmament and the efforts undertaken by the EU Consortium to promote and coordinate their work.

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