What is a small quantities protocol (SQP) to a safeguards agreement? Why has the standard text for SQPs been modified and what is the significance of the modified SQP? In practical terms, how does a State amend or rescind an SQP? What are the benefits to the State of amending to the modified text or rescinding an SQP?
In the first edition of a new series of issue briefs, entitled the “Governing the Atom Brief Series,” VCDNP Research Associate Noah Mayhew and Research Intern Kseniia Pirnavskaia address the above questions, placing emphasis on how amending or rescinding an SQP can benefit the State concerned in international political, domestic institutional and technical contexts.
The “Governing the Atom” brief series” presents easily digestible and factual information to experts and government representatives on critical nuclear governance issues and aids States in their decision making in critical issues related to working with international organisations and regimes, including the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the International Atomic Energy Agency, the Comprehensive Nuclear‑Test‑Ban Treaty Organization, as well as on arms control and disarmament, nuclear export controls, nuclear security, and other relevant topics.
