The HCoC holds special significance in the Middle East as the region is fraught with the development of ballistic arsenals, the use of missiles on the battlefield and the proliferation of such systems towards both states and non-state actors. Moreover, several ballistic missile programmes have been closely associated with WMD acquisition.

In the field of arms control and non-proliferation, ‘emerging technologies’ are commonly perceived as creating potential threats that may make it even more difficult to prevent arms racing and regulate global competition. Given the dual-nature of the Hague Code of Conduct, space developments must also be considered to assess the adaptability of the regime to new technologies.

Since its inception and through the collective outreach efforts of its Chairs, the Executive Secretariat, the EU and the United Nations, the Hague Code of Conduct has received growing support. It has improved its efficiency and implementation through a series of initiatives which have made it more easily accessible.