The future of the missile technology control regime

Missile technology proliferation, in combination with weapons of mass destruction (WMD), is a great concetn in the field of non-proliferation, according to the author. Some non-partner States of the MTCR underline the legal weakness of the MTCR as an informal group of partners based on voluntary cooperation MTCR members, howevel; welcome any form of adherence to the rules and procedures of the regime, through cooperation or application to join the regime. The author rebuts the view that the MTCR is discriminatory, stating that its rules over the export of technology apply to partners and non-partners alike The MTCR does not prevent the peaceful use of missile technology, although difficulties persist in differentiating peaceful space projects and WMD delivery programmes. Convinced of the effectiveness of the MTCR, the author urges that dialogue and cooperation should be developed between partners and non-partners to allow it to become even more effective. Hungary as current chairman of the regime is exerting great efforts in that direction. The UNDDA can play a role in spreading information about the regime, a requirement the author believes is necessary for the regime's credibility.

Related Subject(s): Disarmament