Bolstering Counter-Proliferation Regime

With regard to the proliferation of radiological and nuclear weapons, there have been debates on shifting strategies from non-proliferation to counter-proliferation. Counter-proliferation strategies are focused on problem states rather than the technologies, and also on unilateral and limited group actions rather than multilateral legal agreements. The US has been the strongest supporter of the counter-proliferation regime. After the 9/11 terrorist attack, the US introduced counter-proliferation programs and measures like the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI). Considering the strategic difference between non-proliferation and counter-proliferation, what strategies should the international community pursue? How can the international community cooperate to bolster counter-proliferation?

Non-State Stakeholders in Preventing WMD Proliferations

While policy makers have generally recognized the military threat posed by weapons of mass destruction (WMD), they have tended to downplay or disregard the possibility that these weapons might be used by a non-state or transnational actor in a campaign to cause mass destruction through an act of terrorism. In addition, even when seeking to prevent WMD proliferation, policy makers have downplayed the role of non-state stakeholders and civil societies. With this regard, the panel will discuss the role of non-state stakeholders in preventing WMD proliferation and in implementing the UNSCR 1540.

Regional Cooperation in Nuclear Safety

There is a growing need to organize international cooperation in cases where nuclear safety-related disasters or situations could occur. The Republic of Korea, Japan, and China, as neighboring countries with active civilian nuclear programs should assure the importance of trilateral cooperation in nuclear safety. Regional cooperation in any potential nuclear disaster will be critical in terms of protecting civilian populations from radiation poisoning. An agenda for cooperation many include sharing experiences in the construction and operation of nuclear facilities, information exchange on nuclear regulatory issues, emergency preparedness and response, and cooperative development of nuclear safety features. This session will discuss the need for regional nuclear safety cooperation in Northeast Asia, concepts of regional cooperation, opportunities for regional cooperation in nuclear safety, etc.