Year
2024
Abstract
| To fulfil their international obligations and commitments on the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) states have developed export control systems (ECS). These regulate the export of goods, software and technology that have utility in nuclear, chemical and biological weapons programmes and their means of delivery.In April 2004, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1540 under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. This affirmed that the proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons and their means of delivery constituted a threat to international peace and security.Amongst the key requirements of the Resolution was the need for states to adopt legislation to prevent proliferation, by establishing appropriate domestic controls over related strategic materials, to prevent their illicit trafficking. It also encouraged enhanced international cooperation on such efforts and the development of appropriate ways to work with industry on their obligations under such laws.Exporters (those from industry, academia and research centers) play an important role in compliance with ECS. They possess in-depth knowledge of their products and technology, their customers and the market for their items. Exporters therefore provide the first line of defence against proliferation.Recognizing that exporters are major actors in non-proliferation efforts, governments have invited them to become involved in the promotion and implementation of Resolution 1540 both at the domestic and international level.Willing to support cooperation, at both the national and international level, and in the furtherance of peace and stability through non-proliferation, exporters have responded positively to this invitation by founding the Network Against Proliferation (NAP Project).The NAP Project is an international network of exporters from industry, academia and research centers that have agreed to voluntarily adopt ten major principles (set out below at Fig 1) directly drawn from Resolution 1540.The members apply these ten principles to their own conduct and promote them within their supply chains thus multiplying the number of exporters involved.In addition to members, governments and other institutions have agreed to play a role as “Supporting Members”. They recognize and support the initiative as the exporters’ contribution towards full implementation of Resolution 1540.The BOTTICELLI Project has already developed an “organization”, “statutes”, “a charter”, “ten principles” and “a road map”. Apart from meetings it is planned to organize workshops on common industry issues such as “Emerging Technology Export”, “Classification”, “Extraterritoriality”, “Industry mapping”, “Industry Involvement in the Resolution 1540” and “International Cooperation”. The Project also envisages the development of “Guidelines”, “Best Practices”, “Standards”, “Training”, “Assessments and Audits”, “Sanctions Control List”, “Expert Rosters”, “Harmonized Practices” and “Internal Compliance Programs” suited to either large, medium or small enterprises. The NAP Project is a recent initiative. For it to grow and reach its full potential it needs the continuing support of States and the United Nations. |