On 15 April 2026, the VCDNP, within the framework of the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative (YWNGI), hosted a virtual event titled "Strategic Trade Controls, Dual-Use Items, and the Role of the European Union." The event featured Dr. Ana Sánchez Cobaleda, Legal Advisor to the EU P2P Export Control Programme and Assistant Professor at the University of Barcelona.
Federica Dall’Arche, Senior Research Associate at VCDNP, opened the session by introducing the topic and its current challenges and presenting Dr. Sánchez Cobaleda, emphasizing her extensive experience in the field. Dr. Sánchez Cobaleda provided a comprehensive overview of the complex legal framework governing dual-use export controls, discussing the role of the European Union in balancing trade and security considerations.
Dr. Sánchez Cobaleda first defined dual-use goods and outlined the historical development and nature of the legal regimes governing them, with particular attention to their binding and non-binding dimensions. Building on this foundation, she then examined the role of the European Union in regulating the trade of dual-use items, highlighting its efforts both to continuously update existing control lists and to provide technical assistance and support to partner countries. Dr. Sánchez Cobaleda also reflected on her work as a Legal Advisor for the EU and offered insights on how young professionals can best advance their career pathways in this field.
The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, during which participants engaged with Dr. Sánchez Cobaleda on a range of topics, including the impact of these regulations on trade and competition.There was also an opportunity to address questions regarding career and engagement opportunities in the field. Dr. Sánchez Cobaleda emphasized the importance of curiosity and engagement from the younger generation, highlighting how the field benefits from the collaboration of individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
The webinar was aimed at the next generation of professionals in the field and brought together over 35 participants, including current and former mentees of the YWNGI.
The YWNGI, an initiative by the VCDNP within the framework of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC), aims to inspire young women and the next generation to explore careers in non-proliferation, arms control, and disarmament. The initiative provides mentorship, workshops, and outreach opportunities to address gender and age imbalances in the field.
More information about the Young Women and Next Generation Initiative can be found here.
The VCDNP thanks the European Union for supporting the YWNGI and this event.
