From 9 to 10 April 2025, the “Securing Our Future: An Introduction to Arms Control, Non-Proliferation, and Disarmament” Workshop took place at the University of Split, bringing together experts, diplomats, military officers, young professionals, and students from across the South East European region and beyond.
The two-day event, which saw the participation of experts and officials from RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation and members of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium, including the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) and the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI), provided attendees with a foundational understanding of arms control, non-proliferation, and disarmament, covering political, legal, and technical dimensions of international security frameworks.
The Workshop opened with the Welcoming remarks by Prof. Damir Piplica, Head of Department of Forensic Sciences, University of Split, who welcomed the present speakers and participants.
RADM Predrag Stipanović, Deputy Director of RACVIAC, emphasized the importance of fostering regional cooperation and understanding, highlighting the relevance of these security issues in today’s changing world.
The first day featured expert-led lectures and discussions covering fundamental topics in arms control and non-proliferation. Ms. Federica Dall’Arche, Senior Research Associate (VCDNP), introduced participants to the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium, outlining its role in policy research and capacity-building initiatives. The morning continued with a lecture on conventional arms control delivered by Col (res.) László Szatmári, former Head of the Hungarian Military Advisory Group to the OSCE. He provided an in-depth analysis of key conventional arms control agreements, including the Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) Treaty, and discussed confidence-building measures, small arms control and transparency initiatives within the OSCE framework. Ms. Dall’Arche then introduced participants to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and its significance in maintaining global security and stability.
In the afternoon, discussions shifted to critical security threats, including chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) dangers. Ms. Paola Tessari, Senior Research Fellow (IAI), explored the security risks posed by WMDs, the challenges of counter-proliferation, and the role of international arms control regimes in mitigating these threats. Prof. Ana Sanchez Cobaleda (University of Barcelona) then examined the complex legal framework governing dual-use export controls, stressing the need to balance trade and security concerns. Later on, forensic science expert Prof. Tonći Prodan (University of Split) together with Ms. Matea Bešlić and Mr. Marin Jovanović detailed the use of forensic techniques in tracking illicit arms and WMDs. The first day of the event ended with Mr. James Cooke (UNODA), who presented the work of the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs.
With a strong foundation established on arms control principles, global security challenges, and policy strategies, day one of the Workshop provided participants with essential knowledge and valuable networking opportunities to enhance their expertise in non-proliferation and disarmament.
The second day of the Workshop focused on hands-on learning through an interactive simulation exercise and career guidance from leading experts. The day began with a recap of key insights from day one, followed by the first segment of the simulation exercise. Designed to provide practical experience in arms control negotiations and crisis management, the exercise challenged participants to navigate real-world scenarios involving weapons of mass destruction (WMDs), illicit arms trafficking, and international security cooperation.
Following a short break, the Workshop featured a high-level panel discussion titled “A Career in Arms Control, Non-Proliferation, and Disarmament: Advice and Opportunities for the Next Generation”. The speakers shared their experiences and insights on career paths, skills development, and opportunities in international organizations, think tanks, and government agencies.
The second and third segments of the simulation exercise continued in the late morning. These simulations underscored the complexity of arms control and the necessity of diplomatic engagement, technical expertise, and legal acumen in addressing security threats.
The Workshop concluded with a Closing session featuring final reflections and evaluation. RADM Predrag Stipanović, Deputy Director of RACVIAC, expressed special gratitude to the University of Split for the initiative and for hosting the activity, as well as to all participants for their contributions. He emphasized the importance of the Workshop in raising awareness about Arms Control, Non-Proliferation, and Disarmament, noting the value of both theoretical knowledge and practical experience through the simulation exercise. RADM Stipanović commended the enthusiasm and engagement of the younger participants, whose dynamism contributed to the overall success of the event. He also highlighted RACVIAC commitment to open discussions on disarmament and the promotion of global peace, expressing hope that participants would carry forth valuable insights and experiences from the Workshop
