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Introduction
The challenge
The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) is a grave threat to international peace and security. That threat can come from states of proliferation concern, attempting to develop illicit weapons that could be used to threaten their neighbours; or from non-state actors, such as terrorists, who aspire to murder on a terrifying scale. This global menace must be confronted: to do so effectively requires a truly global effort.
The Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) is an integral part of that response. The scope and aims of the PSI are set out in its Statement of Interdiction Principles. In essence, the PSI aims to help prevent the proliferation of WMD, their delivery systems, and related materials, through enhanced interdiction efforts. The PSI builds on existing multilateral non-proliferation efforts, and makes clear that any action under the PSI will be consistent with national authorities and relevant international law.
The PSI can be regarded as a step in the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1540, the first ever Security Council resolution on non-proliferation issues, adopted on 28 April 2004. Amongst other measures, the resolution “calls upon all States, in accordance with their national legal authorities and legislation and consistent with international law, to take cooperative action to prevent illicit trafficking in nuclear, chemical or biological weapons, their means of delivery, and related materials.”
Participation in the PSI
The Proliferation Security Initiative was launched by US President Bush during a speech in Krakow, Poland, in May 2003. Since then, more than 80 countries have expressed their support for the PSI, and the number continues to grow. Almost every country in the world has a part to play to help prevent the proliferation of WMD, whether as a flag or coastal state, a transhipment state, or because its nationals are involved in some way in WMD trafficking. Recognising this, the United Nations’ High Level Group on Threats, Challenges and Change has encouraged all States to support the PSI. In March 2005, at a speech in Madrid, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan applauded the efforts of the PSI to "fill a gap in our defenses."
The PSI is not a formal institution, nor is it a treaty body. It is a statement of purpose: an activity, not an organisation. The PSI seeks to involve in some capacity all states that have the ability and willingness to take steps to stop the flow of such items at sea, in the air or on the land.
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Singapore Armed Forces at work during PSI exercise DEEP SABRE 05, August 2005.
6 states took part in the exercise. |
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