Vienna Centre for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP)

On the initiative of the former Austrian Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger, a Vienna Centre for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) was established in Vienna. The Monterey Institute of International Studies/CNS was chosen to manage the Centre. The official opening ceremony took place on 25 February 2011.

Objective

The Centre serves as a platform for independent expertise in the field of nuclear security and contributes to the global efforts in the field of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. VCDNP’s main objectives are

1) to further international peace and security, in particular nuclear security through disarmament and non-proliferation measures; and

2) to further international discourse, education, and training on disarmament and non-proliferation.

These objectives are to be achieved through the following activities:

  • Conferences, seminars and other meetings to foster result-oriented dialogue among international organisations, governments, non-governmental experts, scholars, and civil society;
  • Educational and training programs for professionals, faculty members, students, journalists, and the broader public from various countries;
  • Research and analysis of disarmament and non-proliferation issues and the dissemination of findings ;
  • Partnership with international, non-governmental, and academic institutions and organisations in Austria and other countries in achieving the aforementioned objectives and promoting dialogue, education, research, and analysis.

Structure

The James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS) at the renowned Monterey Institute of International Studies has been selected to manage and operate the VCDNP. The Federal Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs receives a yearly report on the work of the Centre and monitor accountability, especially regarding legal and financial issues.

Managing Organisation

The Monterey Institute of International Studies/CNS is the largest US NGO involved in research and training in areas such as non-proliferation and disarmament issues. It is pro-actively committed to combating the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, making a major contribution through the training of non-proliferation specialists and the dissemination of timely information and analysis.