The Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation is an international non-governmental organization established on the initiative of the Austrian Foreign Ministry in 2010. It is operated by the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. The official opening ceremony of the VCDNP was held on 25 February 2011 at the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria.
The VCDNP’s mission is to promote international peace and security by providing a platform for independent analysis and dialogue in the field of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.
In order to fulfill its mission, the VCDNP employs conferences, seminars, and other fora to foster result-oriented discussion among international organizations, national governments, non-governmental experts, scholars, and civil society. The Center partners with other academic and non-governmental institutions, as well as international organizations in conducting research, outreach, education, and training on non-proliferation and disarmament.
Research & Analysis
The VCDNP conducts research and analysis to inform nuclear policy and decision-making. We produce fact-based analysis and actionable recommendations that respond effectively to our stakeholders’ needs and questions. Through our close relationships with the international organisations and diplomatic community in Vienna and beyond, we stay focused on the events and trends that matter.
VCDNP experts frequently share their insights at multilateral forums and conferences, in renowned publications, and in international media outlets. Among other topics, our research portfolio includes:
Result-oriented dialogue
The VCDNP offers a rich calendar of engaging public events. We raise awareness of the most pressing issues in the field and put government officials and experts into conversation with a global audience. We use our convening power to bring together diplomats, policy-makers, researchers, and civil society members from diverse backgrounds to discuss solutions to existing and emerging challenges. We also host informal, closed-door meetings for diplomats and international experts, including an annual high-level workshop, to facilitate frank discussions, greater mutual understanding, and fruitful collaboration. Our priority is to feature a wide variety of perspectives and encourage productive dialogue among various stakeholders.
Education & training
The VCDNP offers multiple introductory and advanced courses on nuclear non-proliferation, disarmament, nuclear security, and safeguards issues throughout the year. Our courses are taught by experts from the VCDNP and other research institutions, as well as senior officials from international organisations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO). Along with a unique learning experience, our courses provide valuable networking opportunities. We are proud to prioritise participation by women and representatives from developing countries in our courses.
Additionally, the VCDNP invests heavily in the next generation. Together with our partners in the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium, we implement the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative, which empowers young people to join the non-proliferation and disarmament field and provides a nine-month, one-on-one coaching experience under the Young Women Mentorship Programme.
