On 10 April 2025, the VCDNP, on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium (EUNPDC), was pleased to organise and host a one-day programme in Vienna to provide the 2025 UN Disarmament Fellows with an overview of the policies and functioning of the European Union (EU), in particular related to non-proliferation and disarmament. The 24 UN Disarmament Fellows represented countries from around the world, with this year’s cohort including only one EU Member State representative.
The intensive programme brought together speakers from the EU Delegation in Vienna, representatives from the European External Action Service (EEAS), and the EU Commission in person and virtually, as well as members of the EUNPDC network. Ambassador Carl Hallergard, EU Ambassador to the International Organisations in Vienna, welcomed the Fellows and provided remarks reflecting on Europe’s history, the establishment of the European Union, and the challenges Europe faces today. These themes were seen throughout the programme.
Following welcome remarks, the programme commenced with an overview of the key EU institutions, covering in detail the European Council, the Council of the EU, the European Commission, and the European Parliament. Subsequent sessions focused on thematic areas, including the European Union’s approach to space security, emerging technologies and arms control, and export controls on arms and dual-use items. The programme concluded with a presentation from EUNPDC network member Dr. Oliver Meier, Policy & Research Director at the European Leadership Network, focused on Europe and the European Union in today’s changing world.
The highlight of the programme was the opportunity for the Fellows to engage in an in-person, informal dialogue with EEAS Special Envoy for Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Ambassador Stephan Klement. The session covered topics across the weapons of mass destruction (WMD) spectrum, the EU's 2003 WMD strategy, and the EU’s role in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. The interactive dialogue allowed for an open and frank conversation about the EU’s position in the non-proliferation and disarmament field and the challenges today’s geopolitical environment presents.
The one-day EU-focused programme in Vienna was packed with dynamic presentations, active Q&A sessions, and positive feedback from the participants.
The VCDNP extends its gratitude to the European External Action Service and the EU Delegation in Vienna for their support and cooperation in organising the programme, and thanks the European Union for its support to the EUNPDC for making the event possible.
