The Legal Framework of Serbia in Preventing the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

Ćurčić Milica (Naučni saradnik, Institut za nuklearne nauke „Vinča“ – Institut od nacionalnog značaja za Republiku Srbiju. Univerzitet u Beogradu, Srbija), milica.curcic@vin.bg.ac.rs
Arnaudov Mitko (Naučni saradnik, Institut za međunarodnu politiku i privredu u Beogradu, Srbija), mitko@diplomacy.bg.ac.rs
Dimović Slavko (Naučni savetnik, Institut za nuklearne nauke „Vinča“ – Institut od nacionalnog značaja za Republiku Srbiju. Univerzitet u Beogradu, Srbija), sdimovic@vin.bg.ac.rs

In the context of global security concerns, modern states undertake numerous activities to mitigate the risks associated with the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The Republic of Serbia is also involved in these activities, recognizing the importance of countering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction in its legal and strategic documents. This paper provides an overview of the broader historical context of legislative development in this field, as well as the most significant international instruments, including initiatives, agreements, and treaties that Serbia implements. The research questions this paper aims to answer are: Has the Republic of Serbia implemented all relevant international documents for preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, including international agreements, conventions, and resolutions? How does the existing legal framework respond to current regional and global security challenges, and what are the strengths and weaknesses of this framework in the context of its implementation? The core of this paper is the analysis of Serbia’s existing legal framework for preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, as well as the assessment of its strengths and weaknesses in addressing the multiple challenges posed by this type of weaponry. In this way, an in-depth insight is provided into the legal and regulatory measures, international cooperation, and the technological landscape influencing the spread of weapons of mass destruction. Special attention is given to examining security challenges, risks, and threats, both regional and global, to identify potential areas for action where the existing legal framework of Serbia could be improved. The paper emphasizes the importance of raising public awareness and education, as well as fostering a culture of responsibility and vigilance against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

Keywords: weapons of mass destruction, strategies, deproliferation, international cooperation, dual-use items