Future Strategic Leaders' Congress

Australia’s Role in Addressing Global Nuclear Security Challenges

7-9 Nov 2014
ANU Coastal Campus, Kioloa

With the World’s attention focused on the threat posed by violent extremists in Iraq and the escalating conflict in Ukraine, it is timely that we remind ourselves of the threat posed by nuclear weapons – one that could add a further horrific dimension to modern conflict.

Despite the lack of media coverage, nuclear weapons pose an ever-present and existential threat. There are at least 23,000 nuclear warheads still in existence, with a combined blast capacity equivalent to 150,000 Hiroshima bombs. The US and Russia together have over 22,000 and France, the UK, China, India, Pakistan and Israel around 1,000 between them. Nearly half of all warheads are still operationally deployed, and the US and Russia each have over 2,000 weapons on dangerously high alert, ready to be launched immediately – within a decision window of just 4-8 minutes for each president – in the event of a perceived attack (International Commission on Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament, 2009).

The threats and risks associated with the failure to prevent new states acquiring nuclear weapons, to stop any terrorist actor gaining access to such weapons, properly manage a rapid expansion in civil nuclear energy and to persuade existing nuclear-armed states to disarm, defy inaction.

This Congress is centered on exploring the various facets of global nuclear security, ranging from the nuclear weapons proliferation threats posed by aspects of the nuclear fuel cycle through to non proliferation, disarmament and counter proliferation. Alongside exploring these issues, participants will have the opportunity to discuss Australia’s role in promoting global nuclear security with experts in the field.

Prices have increased to reflect the true and increasing costs of running the Congress and is now based on cost recovery.  Previously the Foundation has heavily subsidised participants and this is no longer viable. We appreciate your understanding and we thank you for your support.