The EU Non-Proliferation Consortium

Gender Perspectives, Feminist Theories and Nuclear Weapons
2024-07-02 08:00 - 17:00 (Europe/Paris)
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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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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The Purposes of Nuclear Arms Control: Achievements and Failures
2024-07-02 08:00 - 17:00
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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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.

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.

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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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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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.

SIPRI co-hosts intensive online course on evolving challenges of WMD non-proliferation and disarmament
2025-01-20 - 2025-01-23
On 20–23 January, SIPRI and the European Union Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC) held an intensive online course on the impact of contemporary geopolitical challenges and novel technologies on the proliferation, development and risk of use of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), and mechanisms to address these, including towards arms control and disarmament.
Participants included graduate and postgraduate students in technical or natural science disciplines, as well as early-career professionals in relevant fields.
The course covered the fundamentals of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons; the non-proliferation and disarmament regimes designed to control them; the impact of novel technologies and recent geopolitical changes on WMD proliferation, disarmament, and nuclear security; the proliferation risks associated with natural sciences and engineering skills and knowledge; and potential career paths in non-proliferation and disarmament of WMD. The course also explored the role of EU institutions and industry in addressing the challenges mentioned above.
Course instructors included renowned experts on non-proliferation, arms control, disarmament, export controls, verification and related subjects from SIPRI, other European research centres, think tanks and international organizations.
Contact

Vitaly Fedchenko

IAEA Safeguards in Action: Implementation and the Life of a Nuclear Inspector
2025-02-26 08:00 - 17:00
On 18 February 2025, the VCDNP and the International Affairs Institute (IAI), in the framework of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI), hosted a virtual event titled “IAEA Safeguards in Action: Implementation and the Life of a Nuclear Inspector.”
The event featured Eva Gyane, WiN for Peace Leader at Women in Nuclear (WiN) Global and former nuclear safeguards inspector at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Ms. Gyane provided an insightful overview of the IAEA’s safeguards system, detailing the technical measures used to verify that nuclear material is not diverted for military purposes. She also shared personal experiences from her time as an IAEA nuclear safeguards inspector, highlighting the challenges and rewards of the profession.

Ms Gyane shared first-hand insights from inspections conducted at various facilities worldwide, explaining how inspectors have different tools at their disposal and apply different verification techniques. The discussion highlighted the demanding nature of being a nuclear safeguards inspector, including extensive travel, working in high-security environments, and managing complex technical verifications. At the same time, Ms. Gyane highlighted the exciting opportunities and rewards that come with this unique job and provided an overview of opportunities for young professionals in the field, encouraging them to explore careers in nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament.
The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, where participants engaged with Ms. Gyane on topics ranging from the evolution of IAEA safeguards to the impact of emerging technologies on nuclear verification. The event also included a quiz segment, reinforcing key points discussed throughout the session.

This event was made possible thanks to the generous support of the European Union.
About the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI)
The YWNGI, an initiative by the VCDNP and IAI within the framework of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC), aims to inspire young women and the next generation to explore careers in non-proliferation, arms control, and disarmament. The initiative provides mentorship, workshops, and outreach opportunities to address gender and age imbalances in the field.
More information about the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI) and the Mentorship Programme can be found below:
Mentorship Programme
Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI)

Join IAI to “The European Union's Nuclear Non-proliferation Policy” book launch event
2025-03-18 17:00 - 19:00
The Istituto Affari Internazionali is pleased to invite you on March 18th, 2025 at 5 p.m. CET to the upcoming webinar dedicated to the launch event of The European Union’s Nuclear Non-proliferation Policy, the third book in the Trends and Perspectives in International Politics series, edited by IAI for Routledge. The event aims to give selected speakers and the public a fruitful occasion to understand the development and performance of the EU’s nuclear governance policies as crucial for assessing its role as a Normative Power. The author Manuel Herrera, along with Professor Clara Portela will provide an analysis of the intricacy of its evolving non-proliferation policy, shedding light on the complexities of European nuclear diplomacy.
Click here to register.

Securing Our Future: an Introduction To Arms Control, Non- Proliferation, And Disarmament at the University of Split
2025-04-09 - 2025-04-10
The Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) and the International Affairs Institute (IAI), on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation Consortium and in the framework of the Young Women Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI) visited the University of Split to engage the next generation and raise awareness on non-proliferation, disarmament, and arms control issues.
Prof. Sanchez Cobaleda (University of Barcelona) presenting on Dual Use and Export Control
From 9 to 10 April 2025, the VCDNP and IAI visited the University of Split and took part in the “Securing Our Future: An Introduction to Arms Control, Non-Proliferation, and Disarmament” workshop. The workshop brought together selected students from across the South East European region, including from the University of Zagreb and the University of Budapest. The workshop was also open to the general public and included the participation of young professionals, experts, diplomats, and officers.
The two-day event, which provided attendees with a foundational understanding of arms control, non-proliferation, and disarmament by covering political, legal, and technical dimensions of international security frameworks, was an opportunity for the VCDNP and IAI to represent the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC) and to present its work and activities.
Welcome remarks were delivered by Prof. Damir Piplica, Head of the Department of Forensic Sciences at the University of Split, who warmly greeted participants and speakers and officially opened the event. The first day featured expert-led lectures and discussions focused on foundational topics in arms control and non-proliferation and disarmament.
Ms. Federica Dall’Arche, Senior Research Associate (VCDNP), introduced participants to the EUNPDC, outlining its role and activities, particularly those targeting the younger generation of experts, such as the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative, the Next Generation workshop and the EUNPDC Internships. Ms. Dall’Arche also offered an overview of the different free educational resources offered by the Consortium, including e-learning courses and policy papers, among others.
Federica Dall’Arche (VCDNP) presenting the EUNPDC
The morning continued with a lecture on conventional arms control delivered by Col (res.) László Szatmári, former Head of the Hungarian Military Advisory Group to the OSCE. He provided an in-depth analysis of key conventional arms control agreements, including the Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) Treaty, and discussed confidence-building measures, small arms control and transparency initiatives within the OSCE framework. Ms. Dall’Arche then presented on nuclear arms control, non-proliferation and disarmament, offering an overview of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and its significance in maintaining global security and stability.
In the afternoon, discussions shifted to critical security threats, including chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) dangers. Ms. Paola Tessari, Senior Research Fellow (IAI), explored the security risks posed by WMDs, the challenges of counter-proliferation, and the role of international arms control regimes in mitigating these threats. Prof. Ana Sanchez Cobaleda (University of Barcelona) then examined the complex legal framework governing dual-use export controls, emphasizing the importance of balancing trade and security considerations. Later, forensic science expert Prof. Tonći Prodan (University of Split), and his research team composed of Ms. Matea Bešlić and Mr. Marin Jovanović, presented on the use of forensic techniques in tracking illicit arms and WMDs. The first day concluded with a presentation by Mr. James Cooke (UNODA), who highlighted the work of the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs.
Prof. Tonći Prodan (University of Split), presenting on WMDs Forensic
With a strong foundation established on arms control principles, global security challenges, and policy strategies, day one of the workshop provided participants with essential knowledge and valuable networking opportunities to enhance their expertise in non-proliferation, arms control and disarmament.
The second day of the workshop focused on hands-on learning through an interactive simulation exercise and career guidance from leading experts. Designed to provide practical experience in arms control negotiations and crisis management, the exercise challenged participants to navigate real-world scenarios involving weapons of mass destruction (WMDs), illicit arms trafficking, and international security cooperation. The simulations underscored the complexity of arms control and the necessity of diplomatic engagement, technical expertise, and legal acumen in addressing security threats.
Simulation exercise
Following a short break, the workshop featured a panel discussion titled “A Career in Arms Control, Non-Proliferation, and Disarmament: Advice and Opportunities for the Next Generation”. The speakers shared their experiences and insights on career paths, skills development, and opportunities in international organizations, think tanks, and government agencies.
From left to right: Prof. Sanchez Cobaleda, Federica Dall’Arche, Col (res.) László Szatmári, Paola Tessari, James Cooke, Levente Toth during the panel: “A Career in Arms Control, Non-Proliferation, and Disarmament: Advice and Opportunities for the Next Generation”
The VCDNP and IAI thank the University of Split for hosting the event and the European Union for the generous support in making this event possible.
More information:
Agenda
The EUNPDC Consortium and its work
Additional Opportunities for the Next Generation

Seminar Nuclear Weapons
2025-04-12 08:00 - 17:00
Peace Research Institute Frankfurt
Summer 2025
Based on the most-read texts according to our analysis of a large number of curricula.

Level: for advanced students with prior knowledge in the areas of arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation
Download Syllabus

A Conventional Introduction to Arms Control (update 2025)
2025-04-12 08:00 - 17:00
Peace Research Institute Frankfurt
Summer 2025
This master syllabus offers a classic, primarily realist introduction into contemporary arms control issues.

Level: Undergraduate
Download Syllabus

Conventional Weapons Diversion and Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI) Mentorship Alumni Regional Meeting in Brussels
2025-04-15 15:00 - 18:30
The Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP and the International Affairs Institute (IAI), on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation Consortium and in the framework of the Young Women Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI) organized the first Mentorship Alumni meeting in Brussels and a webinar on Conventional Weapons Diversion featuring Dr. Nils Duquet.
The Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) and the International Affairs Institute (IAI), within the framework of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI), organized the first Mentorship Alumni Regional Meeting for participants of the YWNGI Mentorship Programme. The event was held on 15 April 2025 at the Flemish Parliament in Brussels, in collaboration with the Flemish Peace Institute.
Participants in the Alumni Regional Meeting
The meeting brought together mentors and mentees based in Brussels and surrounding areas, representing both current and past cohorts of the YWNGI Mentorship Programme. This format enabled participants to engage in in-person discussions, share experiences, and strengthen their network, while reflecting on the four editions of the Mentorship Programme.
Selected Mentees at the Alumni Regional meeting
The event was opened by Ettore Greco, Executive Vice-President at IAI, who spoke about the origins of the Mentorship Programme, its goals and challenges, and emphasized the importance of in-person meetings as a way to gather inputs from participants and strengthen their network and sense of community. He also moderated remarks delivered by Pedro Arostegui, Chair of the Council’s Working Group on Non-Proliferation at the EEAS, Sibylle Bauer, Director of Studies, Armament and Disarmament at SIPRI and Chair of the EUNPDC, and Nils Duquet, Director at the Flemish Peace Institute.
From left to right: Ettore Greco, Sibylle Bauer, Pedro Arostegui, Nils Duquet
Pedro Arostegui highlighted the core belief behind the programme: that the voices, insights, and ideas of young women are essential in addressing today’s global challenges. He emphasized that this belief is central to the European Union’s approach, which acknowledges that collective security relies not only on policies and institutions but also on the strength of people-to-people networks — such as those built through the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative and its Mentorship Programme.
Empowering youth – especially young women – is not just the right thing to do, but a strategic imperative for building resilient, inclusive security frameworks”.
“The EU is proud to support initiatives like the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative —and to see how it has grown from a pilot project into a growing community of young female experts and future leaders.
Sibylle Bauer and Nils Duquet, both mentors and Advisory Board members since the programme’s inception, shared their perspectives on its evolution. They underscored how the initiative has grown into a vibrant and expanding community and reaffirmed their strong support for its mission. As the programme enters its fourth edition, the speakers expressed keen interest in understanding the impact it has had on mentees.
From left to right: Ksenija Trajkovska, Bianca Voican, Fer Avar, Amanda Narhan Pereira, Karen Van Loom, Precious Eze
The event continued with a Roundtable discussion among mentors and mentees, moderated by Paola Tessari, Senior Fellow at IAI. After brief introductions, mentees reflected on their experiences in the programme and how it shaped their professional aspirations. For some, it sparked new areas of interest; for others, it expanded their knowledge of the field. All mentees emphasized the value of the relationships formed: from professional networking and participation in high-level conferences to lasting personal connections and friendships. The roundtable also featured suggestions for improving the programme and highlighted the importance of fostering connections across different cohorts to strengthen the growing community.
From left to right: Ettore Greco, Federica Dall’Arche, Nils Duquet
The regional meeting also featured a hybrid lecture by Dr. Nils Duquet, moderated by Federica Dall’Arche, Senior Associate at the VCDNP. Dr. Duquet addressed the issue of conventional weapons diversion, explaining how legally traded arms can be diverted into illicit markets throughout their lifecycle.
He outlined international normative frameworks and initiatives aimed at curbing the illicit proliferation of such weapons and discussed the involvement of non-state actors — including religious extremists and far-right groups. Duquet also explored how emerging technologies, such as 3D printing, are being used to manufacture firearms and how arms trafficking has fuelled both past and ongoing conflicts. The lecture concluded with an interactive Q&A session.
The VCDNP and IAI warmly thank the Flemish Peace Institute for hosting the event and the European Union for the generous support in making this event possible.
The event was organized under the frameworks of the YWNGI, an initiative by the VCDNP and IAI on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC), which aims to inspire young women and the next generation to explore careers in non-proliferation, arms control, and disarmament. The initiative provides mentorship, workshops, and outreach opportunities to address gender and age imbalances in the field.
More information about the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI) and the Mentorship Programme can be found below:
Mentorship Programme https://vcdnp.org/mentorship/
Young Women and Next Generation Initiative https://vcdnp.org/young-women-and-next-generation-initiative-ywngi/

Additional Resources:
Opening Statement by the EEAS
Recording of the Event
Agenda of the event

Webinar: "Conventional Weapons Diversion: Challenges and Initiatives to Counter Illicit Trafficking"
2025-04-15 16:00 - 17:45
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) cordially invite you to a webinar entitled “Conventional Weapons diversion: challenges and initiatives to counter illicit trafficking”.
The event will feature a lecture by Dr. Nils Duquet, Director at the Flemish Peace Institute. He will speak about the diversion of Conventional Weapons and how such weapons, during their lifecycles, happen to be diverted from the legal trade into the illicit domain. Nils Duquet will also address the existing international normative frameworks and initiatives aiming at combating the illicit proliferation of such weapons.
The event will take place online on Zoom on 15 April 2025 from 16:30 to 17:30 (CEST).
Students and young specialists interested in learning more about the field of non-proliferation, arms control and disarmament are particularly encouraged to attend. The event will be held in English.
We kindly ask you to RSVP via the online registration form:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ZvIGS_bFQim4_YVC7nosEA
Tentative agenda

16.00: Welcome remarks and introduction
Federica Dall’Arche, Senior Research Associate, VCDNP
Speaker
Nils Duquet, Director, Flemish Peace Institute
17.15 Q&A

17.45 Meeting Ends
Background

The Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) and The International Affairs Institute (IAI), in the framework of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (EUNPD) Consortium have launched a Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI), an initiative to encourage young women and the next generation to enter the non-proliferation, arms control and disarmament field.
Driven by the widely shared awareness of the persistent age and gender imbalances among experts and practitioners in the non-proliferation, arms control and disarmament field, the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative aims to help address such imbalances by exposing college and university level students to arms control issues, increasing awareness and encouraging participation in events and workshops. The initiative also aims to respond to the very limited offering of relevant courses on WMD issues in colleges and universities at undergraduate and master’s level. The goal is to help students understand how to pursue a career in the field, making the best use of their own skills. The Initiative includes the creation of a mentorship programme, the conveying of workshops and meetings, and the organization of outreach visits at universities.
The YWNGI is possible thanks to the generous support of the European Union.
Download the PDF

A Conventional Introduction to Arms Control
2025-07-16 08:00 - 17:00
Peace Research Institute Frankfurt
Summer 2022
This master syllabus offers a classic, primarily realist introduction into contemporary arms control issues.

Level: Undergraduate
Download Syllabus

Arms Control, Disarmament and Non-Proliferation – A Critical Perspective
2025-07-22 08:00 - 17:00
Peace Research Institute Frankfurt
Summer 2022
In drawing on a wide variety of theoretical outlooks, this master syllabus provides a range of critical perspectives on matters of arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation.

Level: Postgraduate
Download Syllabus

Fourteenth EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consultative Meeting
2025-09-16 - 2025-09-19
The fourteenth Consultative Meeting of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium brought together experts, practitioners, and policymakers for two days of in-depth discussions hosted by the FRS on behalf of the EU. This year’s meeting focused on the most pressing challenges in arms control, disarmament, and non-proliferation, beginning with high-level exchanges on missile defence and strategic risk reduction, space security, rising tensions in South Asia, and the diversion and illicit trafficking of conventional weapons in Syria.
The second day expanded the conversation with sessions on global arms markets, the militarisation of dual-use and uncontrolled items, the proliferation and regulation of UAVs, and the implications of emerging and disruptive technologies, including quantum capabilities, for international security. As in previous editions, theoretical, institutional, political, and industrial perspectives were combined to offer a comprehensive overview of evolving security dynamics, with significant interaction from participants throughout the event.
Video
See below the conference highlights for key takeaways from each session:

Agenda

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EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Next Generation Workshop 2025
2025-11-10
On 10 November 2025, the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI), as a member of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium, hosted the eighth edition of the Next Generation Workshop. Held each year alongside the annual EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Annual Conference, the Workshop brings together early-career researchers and experts working in the fields of non-proliferation, arms control, and disarmament, selected through a highly competitive process. Participants also have the opportunity to attend the Conference and its various sessions and activities, benefiting from valuable networking moments with senior practitioners, policymakers, and fellow experts.
The programme of this year’s Workshop was structured around three thematic sessions, offering an articulated overview of regional perspectives on non-proliferation and disarmament, the emerging challenges facing the NPT regime, and the growing impact of emerging technologies on arms control. The presentations, followed by moments of discussion and Q&A, fostered a rich and constructive exchange between participants and the institutional representatives in attendance, contributing to a rigorous and well-informed debate.

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Conference proceedings

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Fourteenth EU Non-proliferation and Disarmament Conference
2025-11-10 - 2025-11-11
On 10–11 November 2025, the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI), on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium, hosted the 14th edition of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Conference.
As in previous editions, the Conference featured a rich and interdisciplinary agenda, ranging from weapons of mass destruction to conventional arms, from space security to emerging technologies, and regional security dynamics across Europe, the Middle East, South Asia, and East Asia.
This year’s programme placed particular emphasis on a number of highly topical and sensitive issues. A dedicated session on nuclear security included remarks by Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Other key discussions addressed India–Pakistan relations and strategic stability, conflict management and diplomacy in the Middle East, European security and the war in Ukraine, and diplomatic priorities ahead of the 2026 NPT Review Conference.
The debate also integrated important historical reflections. Marking the 50th anniversary of the Biological Weapons Convention and the 80th anniversary of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings, participants heard powerful remarks by United Nations Under-Secretary-General Izumi Nakamitsu. These interventions underscored the enduring link between memory, responsibility, and the prevention of future conflict.
The Conference was organised within the framework of the activities of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium and funded by the European Union.”

Videos

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Agenda

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Comprehensive reports
COMPREHENSIVE REPORT (ENGLISH) – long version

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COMPREHENSIVE REPORT (ENGLISH) – short version

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COMPREHENSIVE REPORT (ARABIC)

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COMPREHENSIVE REPORT (FRENCH)

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COMPREHENSIVE REPORT (RUSSIAN)

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COMPREHENSIVE REPORT (SPAIN)

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COMPREHENSIVE REPORT (CHINESE)

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