News & Views: December 2015

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One need only a cursory look at today's news headlines to understand that the mission of the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies--to combat the spread of weapons of mass destruction by training the next generation of experts--is more critical than ever.
 
Against the backdrop of deteriorating US-Russia relations, stalled multilateral negotiations on nuclear disarmament, as well as new and emerging challenges such as cyberwarfare and additive manufacturing (a.k.a. "3D printing),  CNS continues to educate, empower, and train the world's experts, giving them the knowledge and tools they need to negotiate and implement effective WMD nonproliferation and disarmament policies.
 
Whether we are conducting intensive training of US government personnel on chemical and biological weapons issues, organizing our internationally renowned short courses held in Vienna, Mexico City, or Washington, or building a Middle East Next Generation of Arms Control Specialists Network, CNS's impact goes beyond the classroom in Monterey.
 
Moreover, the cutting-edge research and analysis undertaken by CNS experts--ranging from preventing the next black market in nuclear technology to using new open-source tools to monitor North Korean nuclear activities--constitutes a truly unique, nonpartisan service to global citizens, policy makers, and the media.
 
Your support of this work is vital to our mission. A generous gift made at the end of 2015 will have far-reaching consequences well beyond the next year, and will effectively help support the growing cadre of CNS-trained experts who work to make the world a safer place.
 
I hope that you enjoy reading about the diverse set of CNS activities in our newsletters, and consider making an investment in our shared future. If you have any questions, or would like to speak to me directly about any of our initiatives in 2016, I look forward to hearing from you.
 
My best wishes for a peaceful and prosperous New Year.
 
Sincerely,
 
 
Dr. William C. Potter
Founding Director
James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies and
Sam Nunn and Richard Lugar Professor of Nonproliferation Studies
Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey

Welcoming Robert Mikulak and Carl Stoiber to CNS Washington Team
Robert Mikulak OPCW
Amb. Mikulak image courtesy of OPCW
The addition of two new distinguished visiting scholars strengthens CNS capacity

CNS is extremely pleased to announce that Ambassador Robert Mikulak, former US Permanent Representative to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, and Mr. Carlton Stoiber, former director of several offices in the Department of State, have joined the CNS Washington office as Distinguished Visiting Scholars. 

These experts are available for comment by members of the media. For more information, visit our website
Proliferation Awareness Seminar in Cambodia


US Ambassador William Heidt welcomed the participants to the event and opened the seminar
CNS seminar in South Asia aimed to help strengthen ASEAN states' capacity for export controls

From December 3-4, CNS, with funding from  the State Department's Export Control and Related Border Security (EXBS) Program, took the lead in organizing a two-day seminar for Cambodian officials  in an effort to strengthen nonproliferation awareness and capacity in Cambodia, highlighting  proliferation challenges to international security and why these challenges are relevant to Cambodia and other Southeast Asian countries. 
Appreciation and Honor for IAC Member Cary Neiman
An evening of thanks for tireless efforts


Cary Neiman
On November 20, 2015, the Middlebury Institute for International Studies hosted a special event for Philanthropy Day at the Inn at Spanish Bay in Pebble Beach, California. Long-time International Advisory Council member Cary Neiman was selected as a Distinguished Honoree for "his sustained philanthropic giving, advocacy, and support of the Center's outreach efforts," according to MIIS Vice President Jeffrey Dayton-Johnson. 

Ensuring Deterrence against Russia: The View from NATO States
A new CNS report offers recommendations for upcoming NATO Summit in Warsaw

Image courtesy of NATO
Researchers from CNS traveled to key NATO states to assess the perceptions of governmental and nongovernmental experts regarding how NATO should respond to recent Russian military actions in Crimea, Ukraine, and Syria. 

The ensuing report highlights key findings of the research, provides analysis on a country-by-country basis, and concludes with recommendations for consideration at the July 2016 NATO summit in Warsaw, Poland. 
CNS Is Hiring!

CNS is hiring two Research Associates, one focused on export controls and one to work in our Eurasia Nonproliferation Program. 
Whether you are an alum, a colleague, or an engaged citizen with a passion for nonproliferation, consider showing your support for the work of CNS by donating today. Thank you.