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Document 52012XG0306(01)

Six-monthly Progress Report on the implementation of the EU Strategy against the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (2011/II)

IO C 66, 6.3.2012, p. 6–23 (BG, ES, CS, DA, DE, ET, EL, EN, FR, IT, LV, LT, HU, MT, NL, PL, PT, RO, SK, SL, FI, SV)

6.3.2012   

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 66/6


Six-monthly Progress Report on the implementation of the EU Strategy against the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (2011/II)

2012/C 66/03

Introduction

This progress report covers activities carried out in the second half of 2011 in the context of the implementation of the WMD Strategy (ST 15708/03) adopted by the European Council in December 2003, in the light of the ‘Updated List of priorities’ (ST 10747/08) adopted by the Council in June 2008, and of the ‘New lines for action’ (ST 17172/08) adopted by the Council in December 2008.

Following the establishment of the European External Action Service (EEAS), as of 1 January 2011, the High Representative, supported by the European External Action Service (EEAS) staff, has fulfilled most of the tasks previously exercised by the rotating Presidency of the Council of the EU, and will gradually take over the remaining tasks, currently exercised by the rotating Presidency in support of the EEAS, in particular at some of the international meetings. Since 1 January, representatives of the High Representative have chaired the Brussels-based Council Working Parties dealing with Non-Proliferation and Disarmament and have organised EU coordination in international non-proliferation and disarmament fora, seeking to ensure continuation of an active and visible EU role as foreseen by the Lisbon Treaty. In a few international meetings, resulting from the lack of an EU seat, the rotating Presidency has continued to present the statements on behalf of the EU or on behalf of the EU and its Member States.

The guiding principle and overall aim of the EU has continued to be the promotion of the universality of international treaties, conventions and other instruments and their national implementation, in accordance with the objectives of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction. Accordingly, it pursued these objectives in all the key events during the second semester, notably the IAEA General Conference in September, the First Committee of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in October, the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC) Review Conference in December, as well a number of other international fora, annual meetings of States Parties of Conventions, conferences etc.

It has continued to strive for the effective and complementary use of all available instruments and financial resources (CFSP budget, Instrument for Stability, other instruments) in order to maximise the impact of EU activities in supporting international organisations and third countries.

The EU has continued close cooperation with partners and other third countries striving towards a global convergence of views on the need to strengthen the international non-proliferation regime. Efforts have continued to address non-proliferation issues in the EU's bilateral relations with all relevant countries.

1.   NUCLEAR ISSUES

The Non-Proliferation Working Group (CONOP) actively prepared the IAEA Board of Governors meetings in September and November 2011. It discussed and prepared the IAEA General Conference, in particular the lines to take on the Middle East resolution. Through demarches by EU Delegations, supported by individual Member States’ activities in all IAEA member countries, the EU engaged effectively with the Arab States with a view to avoiding the tabling and putting to a vote of the resolution on Israeli Nuclear Capabilities. It pursued the implementation of the New Lines of Action by the EU in combating the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems through discussion of various actions envisaged in this field, i.a. on consular and scientific vigilance.

1.1.   Follow-up to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) Review Conference

The EU has been actively engaged in contributing to the implementation of the Action Plan adopted at the 2010 NPT Review Conference, including the understandings reached on the Middle East. In the follow-up to the NPT Review Conference, the EU successfully held an inclusive Seminar in Brussels on 6-7 July 2011, contributing to the implementation of Council Decision 2010/799/CFSP adopted on 13 December 2010 in support of a process of confidence-building leading to the establishment of a zone free of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery in the Middle East.

1.2.   IAEA

The EU has enhanced its support to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna. The EU remains a key donor to the Nuclear Security Fund, with more than EUR 30 million committed since 2004. Further on nuclear security, the EU has contributed with its technical expertise to training activities and workshops organised by IAEA and targeting third countries to enhance capabilities in combating illicit trafficking of nuclear and other radioactive materials. The EU and the IAEA have coordinated very well their support to third countries in this field through the border monitoring working group. This included the provision of detection equipments as well as training.

The European Union is committed to contribute up to EUR 25 million to the IAEA LEU (Low Enriched Uranium) Bank through a Council Decision and the Instrument for Stability, as well as more than EUR 5 million to the international project aiming at expanding and modernising the Seibersdorf laboratory. Work on these contributions has been ongoing: the first instalment for the IAEA LEU Bank (EUR 10 000 000) was paid to the IAEA through the Instrument for Stability on 8 December 2011 (for the remaining contribution, a Council Decision is planned to be approved by the Council in 2012) and a first instalment (EUR 4 750 000) through the Instrument for Stability for the Seibersdorf laboratory was paid to the IAEA on 2 December 2011. The EU has continued to provide important technical support to the IAEA in the field of nuclear safeguards through the European Commission Cooperative Support Programme. The 30 years anniversary of this programme was celebrated in Vienna on 13 October 2011. Furthermore, the EU has used its various instruments to enable safe and secure implementation of peaceful uses of nuclear energy in third countries, including through the IAEA. A statement on behalf of the EU and its Member States was delivered on the occasion of adoption of the UN General Assembly Resolution on the Report of the IAEA (New York, 1 November 2011).

1.3.   CTBT

The EU has actively promoted the early entry into force of the Comprehensive-Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), based on the relevant Council Decisions in support of CTBTO and by conducting outreach efforts towards the remaining Annex II States whose ratification is required for the entry into force of the Treaty.

An EU Statement was delivered at the Informal Meeting of the Plenary of the United Nations General Assembly to mark the celebration of the International Day against Nuclear Tests (New York, 2 September 2011). An EU statement on Entry-into-Force of the CTBT has been delivered on the occasion of the CTBT Article XIV Conference in September 2011 (New York), and a written EU statement to mark the 15th anniversary of the opening for signature of the CTBT was circulated on the same occasion. The EU has worked energetically on the implementation of Council Decisions 2008/588/CFSP of 15 July 2008 and 2010/461/CFSP of 26 July 2010, and has started working on possible additional support for the work of the CTBTO Provisional Technical Secretariat. The EU was granted permanent observer status to the CTBTO.

1.4.   Conference on Disarmament (CD)

The EU has persistently pressed for the early start of negotiations on a Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty (FMCT). At the same time, in all its interventions the EU declared its readiness to engage on all other issues on the CD agenda, in particular on nuclear disarmament, the prevention of an arms race in outer space and negative security assurances. Furthermore, the EU has stepped up its constructive work towards the expansion of the CD. The EU will use every opportunity in 2012 to advance the international discussion on and prepare internally for an early start of FMCT negotiations.

1.5.   Regional issues (Iran, DPRK)

The EU High Representative, together with China, France, Germany, Russia, United Kingdom and the United States, has had a sustained approach on leading efforts with the objective to getting Iran engaged into a process aimed at building confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of the Iranian nuclear programme.

Unfortunately, in spite of relentless efforts of the High Representative on behalf of E3 + 3, Iran has not yet demonstrated its readiness to seriously engage in talks about concrete confidence-building measures. The accelerating expansion of the Iranian enrichment programme and IAEA findings about Iranian activities relating to military nuclear technology have contributed to increase existing concerns. In accordance with the double-track approach, the EU has continued to increase the pressure on Iran, including by strengthening existing sanctions and elaborating additional restrictive measures.

Regarding the DPRK, the EU has constantly been supportive of the resumption of the Six-Party Talks process. Implementation of UNSC Resolutions 1718 and 1874 has been further strengthened. The EU is in the process of enhancing the implementation of its autonomous restrictive measures.

2.   CHEMICAL WEAPONS

The implementation of the Council Decision in support of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) has been sustained. A new Council Decision in support of OPCW activities was endorsed by the CODUN Working Group and will be considered by Relex and the Political and Security Committee for its final adoption by the Council. Delegations in the Hague worked on an EU position on the future role of the Organisation, taking into account the nearing of the final extended deadline for the destruction of all remaining stockpiles of chemical weapons (29 April 2012). Four priorities have been identified: (i) completing the destruction of existing stockpiles; (ii) promoting universality of the CWC (seven states yet not parties); (iii) shifting to non-proliferation efforts; (iv) promoting capacity-building with regard to safety and security in the chemical industry in developing countries, in accordance with Article XI, and responding to the use of chemical weapons, under Article X.

The EU also closely followed the situation in Libya where the OPCW was active in securing the remaining precursors of the former Libyan chemical (and nuclear) weapons program.

3.   BIOLOGICAL WEAPONS

Based on previous work and consultations, the EU finalised its preparations for the 7th BTWC Review Conference (Geneva, December 2011) with the objective to support its successive outcome and to promote a strengthening of the Convention. To this end, after having been actively engaged in the Preparatory Committee (Geneva, April 2011), the EU came to the Review Conference with a strong common position through the Decision adopted by the Council on 18 July. The EU’s main priorities are: 1. building confidence in compliance; 2. supporting national implementation; 3. promoting universal adherence.

Relevant projects under the EU Joint Action (now Council Decision) in support of the BTWC were successfully carried out in different regions of the world through demarches, regional workshops (namely, in the Philippines, R. Moldova, Serbia, Peru), and country visits aiming at promoting universality and national implementation. Likewise, the Joint Action in support of the World Health Organisation's activities in the area of laboratory bio-safety and bio-security has been relentlessly implemented. The pilot project in Oman was successfully closed with a ceremony in Muscat on October 24. The main results of this project are now considered by the other Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

4.   MISSILES

EU work on missile non-proliferation focused on support to The Hague Code of Conduct (HCOC) has been stepped up. Council Decision 2008/974/CFSP of 18 December 2008, that reached its implementation end-date on the 1st of July 2011, allowed for a series of activities to be conducted which covered three main aspects of the Code: universality, implementation, and respectively enhancement and improved functioning of the Code.

Moreover, on the basis of past activities and proposals discussed in CONOP, the EEAS proposed in November 2011 to enlarge the scope of the next Council Decision, in order to continue support for the HCOC and to also allow for EU activities in support of missile non-proliferation in general. Efforts in support of membership of all EU Member States in the MTCR were actively pursued, including at the meeting of the MTCR Points of Contact in Paris on 6-7 December 2011.

5.   CBRN THREAT MITIGATION

The EU has strengthened implementation of the EU CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear) Action Plan adopted in 2009, based on relevant assistance programmes under European Community Instruments and in light of the European Parliament resolution of 14 December 2010 (A7-0349/2010/P7_TA(2010)0467). In this context, the EU started working on setting-up a Nuclear Security Training Centre at the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission, with an initial investment of EUR. 2,4 million Moreover, with the aim of facilitating regional cooperation to enhance CBRN policies and capabilities and based on the ‘EU CBRN Centres of Excellence’ (CoE) Initiative launched by the EU in May 2010, nuclear security — related training and awareness programs are being carried out in the framework of the CBRN CoE in South-East Asia.

The aims and objectives of the CoE Initiative present strong similarities with those of the UNSC Resolution 1540. Both are concerned with illicit trafficking and criminal use of CBRN materials and both target exclusively non-state actors. However, a major difference lies in the approach adopted by the two initiatives. While the UNSC Resolution 1540 is a binding document obliging States to comply with its provisions to establish and implement certain basic minimum standards, the CoE Initiative seeks to involve States on a voluntary basis as partners.

In addition, the EU Initiative offers a comprehensive package to fight against the CBRN risk regardless of origin. The risk is not limited to proliferation, but also encompasses accidental and natural causes.

The CoE Initiative is currently being implemented in eight different regions of the world, namely: South East Europe — Southern Caucasus — R. Moldova — Ukraine; South-East Asia; North Africa; African Atlantic Façade; Middle East; Central Asia; Sub-Saharan Africa; and Gulf Cooperation Countries. By the beginning of 2012, the first five Regional Secretariats, a light structure established in each region, will be fully operational.

6.   THINK TANKS

Based on the Council Decision 2010/430/CFSP of 26 July 2010, the EU work under the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction has been actively supported by the EU Non-Proliferation Consortium that started its activity in January 2011. Following the First Consultative Meeting (‘kick-off meeting’) of the European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks that took place on 23-24 May 2011, a first Annual Meeting entitled ‘EU Non-proliferation and Disarmament Conference’ will take place in February 2012. The aim is to provide the EU work on the WMD Strategy with further guidance and input through an open discussion forum that includes EU and third countries think tanks and government officials.

7.   UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION 1540 AND EXPORT CONTROLS

The EU has boost its support to third countries with a view to assisting them with meeting their obligations under UN Security Council Resolution 1540 and to enhance the skills of State officials involved in the export control process, by organising together with UNODA and the 1540 Committee a number of regional workshops, and by carrying out bilateral visits. A new Council Decision in support of UNSCR 1540 has been drafted and is being finalised, to be implemented together with UNODA in support of the work of the 1540 Committee. The mandate extension for 10 years of the 1540 Committee through resolution 1977 adopted in April 2011 will contribute to persistently curbing the risk of proliferation of weapons of mass destruction to non-state actors.

The EU expressed its longstanding commitment towards pursuing the implementation of resolutions 1540 and 1977 by signing a joint declaration with the US on the margins of the 66th session of the United Nations General Assembly (New York, 19 October 2011).

The EU dual-use export control regime has been further strengthened. On the legislative side, the European Parliament and the Council adopted Regulation (EU) No 1232/2011, which puts in place five new EU General Export Authorisations. The update of the EU control list set out in Annex I to Regulation (EC) No 428/2009 was nearly finalised incorporating both the 2009 and 2010 regime changes. It is expected that the update will enter into force in early 2012. In order to accelerate future update of the control list, the Commission put forward a proposal in November 2011 which foresees that future amendments to Annex I be done via delegated acts. In mid-2011, the Commission launched a review of the EU dual-use export control system under Article 25 of the dual-use Regulation by publishing a Green Paper. Over 100 responses were received to the consultation, which will help shape the reform of the system in 2012. On the non-legislative side, the Commission undertook a number of activities designed to further improve cooperation and the exchange of practical experience on dual-use export controls among the 27 EU Member States. The Commission continued to develop the Dual-use e-System, which facilitates information exchange on export controls among the Member States. Significant progress was made on the development of EU guidelines on dual-use export controls. Other activities included the organisation of peer visits, the hosting of the 2011 Dual-use Exporter Conference and working on the development of an EU training programme on export controls.

8.   SPACE

On the basis of the Council Conclusions on 27 September 2010 containing the revised draft for a Code of Conduct for Outer Space Activities, the EU has consulted with a series of countries, active or not yet active on space issues, to discuss that proposal and gather their views. Negotiations will now be taken at another level, as the first EU-sponsored Multilateral Experts Meeting to discuss the draft Code will take place during the first semester of 2012, and will be open to participation by all States. This meeting will serve to prepare the subsequent ad-hoc diplomatic conference, at which the Code will be opened for signature.

9.   WMD CLAUSES

The EU continued, in accordance with its WMD Strategy, to mainstream non-proliferation of WMD into its contractual relations with third countries.

During the second semester of 2011, further progress was achieved in the negotiation of WMD clauses in relevant agreements between the EU and third countries, and in particular with MERCOSUR, Azerbaijan, Malaysia, and Singapore.

10.   MULTILATERAL FORA

—   G8

The EU played an active role in the meetings of the Non-proliferation and Disarmament Directors of G8 and presented in particular the results of the EU Seminar on the WMD free zone in the Middle East (Brussels, 6-7 July).

Global Partnership, nine years after its creation in 2002, has expanded beyond the G8 to become a platform of coordination and cooperation, counting now 15 additional partners. At the Deauville Summit in May 2011, leaders agreed to further strengthen biological security, 1540 implementation and nuclear security. The US, who will chair the G8 in 2012, announced at the last Global Partnership meeting under the French G8 Presidency that better coordination, adequate funding and sound management of smaller projects (compared to Russia's approach) will be a priority. Bringing in (other) regional organisations will be discussed as well as reinforcing regional ownership. The EU Centres of Excellence were presented as an interesting methodology that could be used by the G8 to facilitate exchange of information regionally and, possibly, avoid duplication among donors.

—   ASEAN Regional Forum

The EU has enhanced its participation in the activities of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF). With the US in lead, the draft Work-Plan on Non-Proliferation and Disarmament was developed and tabled for endorsement by ARF Ministers in July 2011.

As, at the ARF Inter-Sessional Support Group Meeting on confidence-building measures and preventive diplomacy held in Cambodia on 8-9 December, some participants requested more time for consultations on the draft Work Plan, its endorsement was postponed. The EU expressed support for an early adoption of the document and informed about the CBRN Centres of Excellence initiative focusing on South-East Asia. The Philippines, Republic of Korea and Australia will co-chair the Fourth Inter-Sessional Meeting on Non-Proliferation and Disarmament in March 2012. The draft Work Plan will be further submitted for finalisation at the next ARF Senior Officials Meeting in May 2012.

11.   POLITICAL DIALOGUE MEETINGS

Political dialogue meetings on non-proliferation and disarmament were organised with Canada (New York, 6 October), Ukraine (New York, 5 October) and the United States (12 December). Informal consultations on non-proliferation and disarmament were held with Japan (Brussels, 8 July) and South Africa (Vienna, 16 November).


ANNEX 1

ANNEX TO THE SIX-MONTHLY WMD PROGRESS REPORT

Overview of EU Council, Joint Actions and Council decisions in the framework of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

Title

Objective and implementing entity

Budget and duration

Council Decision 2010/585/CFSP of 27 September 2010 on support for IAEA activities in the areas of nuclear security and verification and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

The objectives are:

strengthening national legislative and regulatory infrastructures for the implementation of relevant international instruments in the areas of nuclear security and verification, including comprehensive safeguards agreements and the Additional Protocol,

assisting States in strengthening the security and control of nuclear and other radioactive materials,

strengthening States' capabilities for detection and response to illicit trafficking in nuclear and other radioactive materials.

Implementing entity: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

Budget: EUR 9 966 000

Official Journal: L 302, 1.10.2010

Estimated duration of the action: 24 months

Council Decision 2010/430/CFSP of 26 July 2010 establishing a European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks in support of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

The objective of this network of independent non-proliferation think tanks is to encourage political and security-related dialogue and the long-term discussion of measures to combat the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their delivery systems within civil societies, and more particularly among experts, researchers and academics. It will constitute a useful stepping stone for non-proliferation action by the Union and the international community.

The Union wishes to support this network as follows:

through organising a kick-off meeting and an annual conference with a view to submitting a report and/or recommendations to the representative of the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (HR),

through creating an Internet platform to facilitate contacts and foster research dialogue among the network of non-proliferation think tanks.

Implementing entity: EU Non-Proliferation Consortium

Budget: EUR 2 182 000

Official Journal: L 205, 4.8.2010

Estimated duration of the action: 36 months

Council Decision 2010/461/CFSP of 26 July 2010 on support for activities of the Preparatory Commission of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) in order to strengthen its monitoring and verification capabilities and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

The Union will support four projects, the objectives of which are the following:

(a)

to improve the operation and sustainability of the auxiliary seismic stations network of the CTBT’s International Monitoring System;

(b)

to improve the CTBT verification system through strengthened cooperation with the scientific community;

(c)

to provide technical assistance to States Signatories in Africa and in the Latin American and Caribbean Region so as to enable them to fully participate in and contribute to the implementation of the CTBT verification system;

(d)

to develop an OSI noble gas capable detection system.

Implementing entity: The Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO

Budget: EUR 5 280 000

Official Journal: L 219, 20.8.2010

Estimated duration of the action: 18 months

Council Decision 2009/569/CFSP of 27 July 2009 — OPCW

The objective is to support the universalisation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), and in particular to promote the ratification/accession to the CWC by States not Parties (signatory States as well as non-signatory States) and to support the full implementation of the CWC by the States Parties. Objectives are:

to enhance the capacities of States Parties in fulfilling their obligations under the Convention, and

to promote universality,

Implementing entity: The Organisation for the Prohibition of the Chemical Weapons

Budget: EUR 2 110 000

Official Journal: L 197, 29.7.2009

Estimated duration of the action: 18 months

Council Decision 2008/974/CFSP of 18 December 2008 in support of HCoC

The EU supports three aspects of the Code as follows:

universality of the Code,

implementation of the Code,

enhancement and improved functioning of the Code.

Implementing entity: Fondation pour le Recherche Stratégique

Budget: EUR 1 015 000

Official Journal: L 345, 23.12.2008

Estimated duration of the action: 24 months

Council Joint Action 2008/588/CFSP of 10 November 2008 in support of BTWC

The overall objective is:

to support the universalisation of the BTWC,

to enhance the implementation of the BTWC, including the submission of CBM declarations, and

to support the best use of the Inter-Sessional Process 2007-2010 for the preparation of the 2011 Review Conference.

Implementing entity: United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) — Geneva

Budget: EUR 1 400 000

Official Journal: L 302, 13.11.2008

Estimated duration of the action: 24 months

Council Joint Action 2008/588/CFSP of 15 July 2008 in support of CTBTO

The EU supports the development of capacity of the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO in the area of verification by:

noble gas monitoring: radio-xenon measurements and data analysis,

integrating States Signatories in Africa to fully participate in and contribute to the implementation of the CTBTO monitoring and verification system,

Implementing entity: The CTBTO Preparatory Commission

Budget: EUR 2 316 000

Official Journal: L 189, 17.7.2008

Estimated duration of the action: 18 months

Council Joint Action 2008/368/CFSP of 14 May 2008 in support of the implementation of UNSCR 1540

The projects in support of the implementation of UNSCR 1540 will take the form of six workshops aiming at enhancing the capacity of officials responsible for managing the export control process in six subregions (Africa, Central America, Mercosur, the Middle East and Gulf Regions, Pacific Islands and South-East Asia), so that they can at a practical level undertake implementation efforts of UNSCR 1540. The proposed workshops will be specifically tailored for border, customs and regulatory officials and will comprise the main elements of an export control process including applicable laws (including national and international legal aspects), regulatory controls (including licensing provisions, end-user verification and awareness-raising programmes) and enforcement (including commodity identification, risk-assessment and detection methods).

Implementing entity: United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA)

Budget: EUR 475 000

Official Journal: L 127, 15.5.2008

Estimated duration of the action: 24 months

Council Joint Action 2008/314/CFSP of 14 April 2008 on support for IAEA activities in the areas of nuclear security and verification — IAEA IV

The objectives are:

strengthening national legislative and regulatory infrastructures for the implementation of relevant international instruments in the areas of nuclear security and verification, including comprehensive safeguards agreements and the Additional Protocol,

assisting States in strengthening the security and control of nuclear and other radioactive materials,

strengthening States' capabilities for detection and response to illicit trafficking in nuclear and other radioactive materials.

Implementing entity: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

Budget: EUR 7 703 000

Official Journal: L 107, 17.4.2008

Estimated duration of the action: 24 months

Council Joint Action 2008/307/CFSP of 14 April 2008 in support of the World Health Organisation activities in the area of laboratory bio-safety and bio-security

The overall objective is to support the implementation of the BTWC, in particular those aspects that relate to the safety and security of microbial or other biological agents and toxins in laboratories and other facilities, including during transportation as appropriate, in order to prevent unauthorised access to and removal of such agents and toxins.

Promotion of bio-risk reduction management through regional and national outreach

Strengthening the security and laboratory management practices against biological risks

Implementing entity: The World Health Organisation

Budget: EUR 2 105 000

Official Journal: L 106, 16.4.2008

Estimated duration of the action: 24 months

Council Joint Action 2007/753/CFSP of 19 November 2007 in support of IAEA monitoring and verification activities in the DPRK

Objective:

to contribute to the implementation of monitoring and verification activities in the DPRK, in accordance with the Initial Actions of 13 February 2007, as agreed in the framework of the six-party-talks.

Implementing entity: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA Department of Safeguards)

Budget: EUR 1 780 000

Official Journal: L 304, 22.11.2007

Estimated duration of the action: 18 months

Council Joint Action 2007/468/CFSP of 28 June 2007 — CTBTO II

The objective is to support the early entry into force of the Treaty, and need to the rapid buildup of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) verification regime via:

improvement of the knowledge of Provisional Technical Secretariat noble gas measurements,

support to on-site inspection via the support for the Preparations for the Integrated Field Exercise 2008.

Implementing entity: The CTBTO Preparatory Commission

Budget: EUR 1 670 000

Official Journal: L 176, 6.7.2007

Estimated duration of the action: 15 months

Council Joint Action 2007/185/CFSP of 19 March 2007 — OPCW

The objective is to support the universalisation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), and in particular to promote the ratification/accession to the CWC by States not Parties (signatory States as well as non-signatory States) and to support the full implementation of the CWC by the States Parties:

promotion of universality of the CWC,

support for full implementation of the CWC by States Parties,

international cooperation in the field of chemical activities, as accompanying measures to the implementation of the CWC,

support for the creation of a collaborative framework among the chemical industry, OPCW and national authorities in the context of the 10th anniversary of the OPCW.

Implementing entity: The Organisation for the Prohibition of the Chemical Weapons

Budget: EUR 1 700 000

Official Journal: L 85, 27.3.2007

Estimated duration of the action: 18 months

Council Joint Action 2007/178/CFSP of 19 March 2007 — Russian Federation IV

The objective is to assist the Russian Federation in destroying some of its chemical weapons, towards fulfillment of Russia’s obligations under the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction.

This Joint Action supported the completion of the electricity supply infrastructure at Shchuch’ye chemical weapon destruction facility, in order to provide a reliable power supply for the operation of the chemical weapon destruction facility.

Implementing entity: The Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Budget: EUR 3 145 000

Official Journal: L 81, 22.3.2007

Estimated duration of the action: 18 months

Council Joint Action 2006/418/CFSP of 12 June 2006 — IAEA III

The objective is to strengthen nuclear security in selected countries which have received EU assistance such as:

legislative and regulatory assistance,

strengthening the security and control of nuclear and other radioactive materials,

strengthening of States' capabilities for detection and response to illicit trafficking.

Implementing entity: The International Atomic Energy Agency

Budget: EUR 6 995 000

Official Journal: L 165, 17.6.2006

Estimated duration: the action expired on 12.9.2007

Council Joint Action 2006/419/CFSP of 12 June 2006 — UNSCR 1540

The action aimed at addressing three aspects of the implementation:

awareness-raising of requirements and obligations under the Resolution,

contributing to strengthening national capacities in three target regions (Africa, Latin America and Caribbean, Asia-Pacific) in drafting national reports on the implementation of UNSC Resolution 1540 (2004), and

sharing experience from the adoption of national measures required for the implementation of the Resolution.

Implementing entity: United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA — formerly the Department for Disarmament Affairs)

Budget: EUR 195 000

Official Journal: L 165, 17.6.2006

Estimated duration: the action expired on 12.6.2008

Council Joint Action 2006/243/CFSP of 20 March 2006 — CTBTO I

The objective is to improve the capacity of CTBT Signatory States to fulfil their verification responsibilities under the CTBT and to enable them to fully benefit from participation in the Treaty regime by a computer-based training/self-study.

Implementing entity: The CTBTO Preparatory Commission

Budget: EUR 1 133 000

Official Journal: L 88, 25.3.2006

Estimated duration of the action: 15 months

Council Joint Action 2006/184/CFSP of 27 February 2006 — BTWC

Overall objective: to support the universalisation of the BTWC and, in particular, to promote the accession to the BTWC by States not Party (signatory States as well as non-signatory States) and to support the implementation of the BTWC by the States Parties.

Promotion of the universality of the BTWC

Support for implementation of the BTWC by the States Parties

Implementing entity: The Graduate Institute of International Studies, Geneva

Budget: EUR 867 000

Official Journal: L 65, 7.3.2006

Estimated duration of the action: 18 months

Council Joint Action 2005/913/CFSP of 12 December 2005 — OPCW II

The objective is to support the universalisation of the CWC and in particular to promote the accession to the CWC by States not Party (signatory States as well as non-signatory States) and to support the implementation of the CWC by the States Parties.

Promotion of universality of the CWC

Support for implementation of the CWC by the States Parties

International cooperation in the field of chemical activities

Implementing entity: The Organisation for the Prohibition of the Chemical Weapons

Budget: EUR 1 697 000

Official Journal: L 331, 17.12.2005

Estimated duration of the action: 12 months

Council Joint Action 2005/574/CFSP of 18 July 2005 — IAEA II

The objective is to strengthen nuclear security in selected countries which have received EU assistance such as:

strengthening the physical protection of nuclear materials and other radioactive materials in use, storage and transport and of nuclear facilities,

strengthening of security of radioactive materials in non-nuclear applications,

strengthening of States’ capabilities for detection and response to illicit trafficking,

legislative assistance for the implementation of states’ obligations under IAEA Safeguards Agreements and Additional Protocols.

Implementing entity: The International Atomic Energy Agency

Budget: EUR 3 914 000

Official Journal: L 193, 23.7.2005

Estimated duration of the action: 15 months

Council Joint Action 2004/797/CFSP of 22 November 2004 — OPCW I

The objective is to support the universalisation of the CWC and in particular to promote the accession to the CWC by States not Party (signatory States as well as non-signatory States) and to support the implementation of the CWC by the States Parties.

Promotion of universality of the CWC

Support for implementation of the CWC by the States Parties

International cooperation in the field of chemical activities

Implementing entity: The Organisation for the Prohibition of the Chemical Weapons

Budget: EUR 1 841 000

Official Journal: L 349, 25.11.2004

Estimated duration of the action: 12 months

Council Joint Action 2004/796/CFSP of 22 November 2004 — Russian Federation III

The objective is to contribute to reinforcing the physical protection of nuclear sites in Russia, so as to reduce the risk of theft of nuclear fissile material and of sabotage by improving the physical protection for fissile materials at the Bochvar Institute in Moscow (VNIINM) of the Russian Federal Agency for Atomic Energy FAAE (formerly MINATOM).

Implementing entity: The Federal Republic of Germany

Budget: EUR 7 730 000

Official Journal: L 349, 25.11.2004

Estimated duration of the action: 36 months

Council Joint Action 2004/495/CFSP of 17 May 2004 — IAEA I

The objective is to strengthen nuclear security in selected countries which have received EU assistance such as:

strengthening the physical protection of nuclear materials and other radioactive materials in use, storage and transport and of nuclear facilities,

strengthening of security of radioactive materials in non-nuclear applications,

strengthening of States' capabilities for detection and response to illicit trafficking.

Implementing entity: The International Atomic Energy Agency

Budget: EUR 3 329 000

Official Journal: L 182, 19.5.2004

Estimated duration of the action: 15 months

Council Joint Action 2003/472/CFSP of 24 June 2003 — Russian Federation II

This Joint Action aims at financing a unit of experts under the cooperation programme for non-proliferation and disarmament in the Russian Federation.

Budget: EUR 680 000

Official Journal: L 157, 26.6.2003

Duration: shall expire on the date of expiry of European Union Common Strategy 1999/414/CFSP on Russia

Council Joint Action 1999/878/CFSP of 17 December 1999 — Russian Federation I

The project contributed to:

a chemical weapons pilot destruction plant situated in Gorny, Saratov region, Russia,

a set studies and experimental studies on plutonium transport, storage and disposition.

Budget: EUR 8 900 000

Official Journal: L 331, 23.12.1999

Duration: shall expire on the date of expiry of the European Union Common Strategy 1999/414/CFSP on Russia


ANNEX 2

ANNEX TO THE SIX-MONTHLY WMD PROGRESS REPORT

Overview of instrument for stability, priority 1

‘Risk mitigation and preparedness relating to chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear materials or agents’

Project identification

Title

Objective

Contractor

Amount

Execution period

n.a.

Retraining former weapon scientists and engineers through support for International Science and Technology Centre (ISTC, Moscow) and Science and Technology Centre (STCU, Kiev)

The main objective of the centres is to redirect scientists/engineers' talents to civilian and peaceful activities through science and technological cooperation.

ISTC/STCU

 

TACIS

EUR 235 million

1997-2006

 

IFS

EUR 15 million

2007

EUR 8 million

2008

EUR 7,5 million

2009

EUR 5,0 million

2010

EUR 4,5 million

2011


AAP 2007 (Excluding funding for ISTC/STCU)

Project identification

Title

Objective

Contractor

Amount

Execution period

IFS/2008/145-156

Combating illicit trafficking of nuclear and radioactive materials in FSU countries (Russian Federation, Ukraine, Armenia, Moldova, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Belarus)

The purpose of the action is to supply equipment for detection of NRM at border check points as it was identified in the previous phase of the activity financed by TACIS Nuclear Safety programme, contributing thus to reduce nuclear and radiation terrorism threat.

JRC

EUR 5 million

11.7.2008-12.4.2013

IFS/2008/145-130

Assistance in export control of dual-use goods

The specific objective is to support the development of the legal framework and institutional capacities for the establishment and enforcement of effective export controls on dual-use items, including measures for regional cooperation with a view of contributing to the fight against the proliferation of WMD and related materials, equipment and technologies.

BAFA (D)

~ EUR 5 million

19.3.2008-31.12.2010

IFS/2008/145-132

Knowledge management system on CBRN trafficking

The overall objective of the activity is to improve capabilities of participating States, neighbouring countries of the EU in South-East Europe and possibly Caucasus, to combat the illicit trafficking and criminal use of CBRN materials (preparation phase to ‘EU CBRN Centres of Excellence’).

UNICRI

EUR 1 million

31.1.2008-1.8.2010


AAP 2008 (Excluding funding for ISTC/STCU)

Project identification

Title

Objective

Contractor

Amount

Execution period

IFS/2009/200-523

Knowledge management system on CBRN trafficking in North Africa and selected countries in the Middle East

The aim of the project would be to develop a durable cooperation legacy in the area of trafficking of CBRN materials (preparation phase to ‘EU CBRN Centres of Excellence’).

UNICRI

EUR 1 million

16.3.2009-15.7.2011

IFS/2009/217-540

Strengthening bio-safety and bio-security capabilities in Central Asian countries

The project will address shortcomings in the safety/security practices of key biological facilities in selected countries of Central Asia. The main objectives of the project are to raise the skills of the personnel working at facilities (laboratories) handling dangerous biological agents or supervising those facilities, and to provide additional equipment, as needed, to ensure an adequate level of bio-safety and security.

ISTC

EUR 6,8 million

21.9.2009-21.9.2014

IFS/2009/219-636

Combating illicit trafficking of nuclear and radioactive materials in selected FSU and Mediterranean Basin countries and preparation of border management activities in the ASEAN region

The overall objective of this project is to reduce the threat of nuclear and radiation terrorism. For this purpose the assistance will be provided to the partner countries in the improvement of the technical and organisational measures for detection of nuclear and radioactive materials (NRM) illicit trafficking.

JRC

EUR 6,7 million

2.12.2009-1.12.2014

IFS/2009/216-327

Awareness raising of exporters export Control of dual-use goods

The overall objective of the project is to enhance the effectiveness of export control of dual use items in the Russian Federation, with a view to contribute to the fight against the proliferation of WMD. The specific objectives will be achieved through information exchange with EU exporters, support industry and researchers for awareness raising, organisation of seminars for exporters in the regions of the Russian Federation.

Russian independent non-profit organisation for professional advancement ‘Export Control Training Center’

EUR 1 million

1.9.2009-1.3.2011


AAP 2009 (Excluding funding for ISTC/STCU)

Project identification

Title

Objective

Contractor

Amount

Execution period

IFS/2010/239-471 (UNICRI main) — IFS/2010/239-481 (JRC main) — IFS/2010/253-483 and IFS/2010/253-485 (pilot projects JRC and Univ. Milan)/IFS/2010/250-984 (UNICRI establishment of 2 Secretariats)

CBRN Centre of Excellence — First phase

To set up a mechanism contributing to strengthen the long-term national and regional capabilities of responsible authorities and to develop a durable cooperation legacy in the fight against the CBRN threat.

UNICRI/JRC main contracts/2 pilot projects in South-East Asia/first stup (2 Secretariats in Caucasus and South-East Asia)

EUR 5 million

May 2010-May 2012

IFS/2010/235-364

Border monitoring activities in the Republic of Georgia, Central Asia and Afghanistan

To enhance the detection of radioactive and nuclear materials at identified borders crossing and/or nodal points in the Republic of Georgia, at southern borders of selected Central Asian countries with Afghanistan and at the airport of Kabul.

JRC

EUR 4 million

4.5.2010-4.5.2013

IFS/2010/238-194

EpiSouth: a network for the control of health and security threats and other bio-security risks in the Mediterranean Region and South-East Europe

To increase through capacity building the bio-security in the Mediterranean region and South-East Europe (10 EU + 17 non-EU countries).

Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome (Italy)

EUR 3 million

15.10.2010-15.4.2013

IFS/2010/247-264 (service)

IFS/2010/248-064 + IFS/2010/258-635 (supply)

Redirection of former Iraqi WMD scientists through capacity building for decommissioning of nuclear facilities, including site and radioactive waste management

To assist Iraq with redirection of scientists and engineers possessing WMD-related skills and dual-use knowledge through their engagement in a comprehensive decommissioning, dismantling and decontamination of nuclear facilities.

UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DELL'INSUBRIA (service) — CANBERRA + NNL (supplies)

EUR 2,5 million

(1,5 million for service + 1,5 million for supplies)

August 2010-August 2013

IFS/2010/253-484

Knowledge management system on CBRN risk mitigation — Evolving towards CoE ‘Mediterranean Basin’

To integrate the existing knowledge management systems, namely for South-East Europe and for North Africa, and to prepare the evolution towards a Centre of Excellence in the Mediterranean Basin dealing with CBRN risk mitigation (preparation phase to ‘EU CBRN Centres of Excellence’).

UNICRI

EUR 0,5 million

25.11.2010-30.4.2012

IFS/2010/254-942

Bio-safety and bio-security improvement at the Ukrainian anti-plague station (UAPS) in Simferopol

To contribute to full implementation of the BTWC (Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention) in Ukraine, which includes the prevention of illicit access to pathogens by terrorists and other criminals.

STCU

EUR 4 million

22.11.2010-21.8.2014

IFS/2010/256-885

Assistance in export control of dual-use goods

Continuation of the on-going activities in this field in the already covered countries, with possible extension to other regions/countries.

BAFA (D)

EUR 5 million

21.12.2010-1.7.2013


AAP 2010 (Excluding funding for ISTC/STCU)

Project identification

Title

Objective

Contractor

Amount

Execution period

IFS/2011/263-555 (set-up)

IFS/2011/273-506 (actions)

CBRN Centres of Excellence — Second phase

Set-up of three to four new Centres in the Middle East and, possibly, Gulf region, Mediterranean Basin, Central Asia and Southern Africa and extension of the projects in South-East Asia and in Ukraine/South Caucasus and implementation of thematic projects in all project areas of priority 1.

UNICRI

EUR 4,5 million

EUR 16,3 million

23.8.2011-28.2.2013

IFS/2011/273-571

Enhancing the capability of the IAEA Safeguards Analytical Service (ECAS) — EU contribution to the new Nuclear Material Laboratory (NML)

To ensure that the IAEA has a strong independent analytical capability for safeguards in the decades to come by means of expansion and modernisation of the IAEA Safeguards Analytical Services.

IAEA

EUR 5 million

30.11.2011-30.11.2015

IFS/2011/272-372 (service) and IFS/2011/272-424 (supplies)

Establishment of mobile laboratories for pathogens up to risk group 4 in combination with CBRN capacity building in sub-Saharan Africa

Implementation of two units of mobile labs to be used to perform diagnosis of up to group 4 infectious agents in sub-Saharan Africa and one ‘stand-by’ unit based in EU for training purposes and to be deployed in other countries outside EU where these agents are endemic or outbreaks occur.

BERNHARD-NOCHT-INSTITUT FUR TROPENMEDIZIN (service) — supply under evaluation

EUR 3,5 million

15.12.2011-14.12.2015

IFS/2011/273-572

Strengthening bio-safety and bio-security capabilities in South Caucasus and in Central Asian countries

To raise the capabilities of State organisations in target countries responsible for bio-safety and bio-security in a way that will result in a substantial improvement of the countries’ bio-safety/security situations.

UNICRI

EUR 5 million

1.1.2012-31.12.2015


AAP 2011 (Excluding funding for ISTC/STCU)

Project identification

Title

Objective

Contractor

Amount

Execution period

IFS/2011/278-349

Multilateral nuclear assurances — EU contribution to the low enriched uranium bank under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

The IfS contribution (EUR 20 million) will be dedicated to the purchase of a quantity of low enriched uranium.

IAEA

EUR 20 million

30.11.2011-30.11.2013

Chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) Centres of Excellence — Third phase

(1) To extend existing activities (management contracts with JRC and UNICRI) till the end of 2014 with the aim of improving national CBRN policies and defining comprehensive tailored assistance packages, in a coherent and effective combination of national and regional dimensions (EUR 3,5 million); (2) to extend the existing Secretariats till the end of 2013 (EUR 3,1 million); and (3) to improve national CBRN policies through the implementation of concrete actions in the areas of export control of dual-use goods, illicit trafficking of CBRN materials, bio-safety and bio-security, scientists' engagement (EUR 8,1 million).

 

EUR 14,7 million

To be signed in 2012

Border monitoring activities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Russian Federation, Ukraine and South-East Asia

To counteract nuclear and radiation terrorism threat. For this purposes the assistance should be provided to the identified countries in the improvement of the technical and organisational measures for detection of nuclear and radioactive materials (NRM) illicit trafficking, including training and establishment of an expert network.

 

EUR 5,8 million

To be signed in 2012

Cooperation in export control of dual-use goods

To strengthen the export control systems of partner countries, with a strong link with the Regional Centres of Excellence activities, by aligning them to the standard of the international export control regimes and treaties and therefore meeting the requirements of the UNSCR 1540 (2004).

 

EUR 3 million

To be signed in 2012


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