Ballistic Missile Non-Proliferation Youth Group
International efforts to curb the proliferation of missiles are epitomised in international instruments such as the Hague Code of Conduct (HCoC), or export control groups such as the MTCR. UN Resolutions such as the 1540 Resolution also refer to the need to curb the dissemination of WMD means of delivery. However, at the international level, delivery vehicles proliferation may be given less attention than the question of WMDs per se. However, proliferation of missiles is a key concern today, with states developing programmes despite of sanctions or pursuing transfers prohibited by international law. In this context, it is important to develop global expertise about missile non-proliferation issues and targeted knowledge about the HCoC to ensure that:
- Adequate awareness is raised about the risks posed by missile proliferation around the world
- Relevant information is shared about existing mechanisms that aim at curbing missile proliferation, in particular the Hague Code of Conduct
- More stakeholders can contribute to global thinking about how to address the issues created by missile proliferation
- More diverse voices can raise their specific concerns linked to the proliferation of missiles and be provided the opportunity to share views and exchange on these concerns
- The new generation of experts on these subjects can meet and create informal links that can be valorised in their future career
In this context, FRS created a Youth Group to develop expertise on missile-related issues and raise knowledge about the Code by ensuring that representatives from the younger generation involved in disarmament and non-proliferation issues worldwide are familiar with the specificities of missile dissemination.
Seventeen fellows have been selected and will take part in a programme of activities running from October 2026 to December 2027. This programme will include one main workshop in Lithuania, at the Cold War Museum of Plokštinė, located within the Žemaitija National Park.
Fellows are invited to contribute through the preparation of a report that will be published online at the end of the programme. This paper will be prepared individually, focused on a special topic linked to missile proliferation. Informal exchanges and virtual activities will be strongly encouraged.
The Youth Group was officially launched on October 5, 2026.