The Zangger Committee is recognized as a crucial component of international efforts to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and contributes to the implementation of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). By establishing nuclear export controls, the committee aims to prevent dual-use nuclear materials and technologies from being used for military purposes. Named after its first chairman, Swiss physicist Claude Zangger, this body was established to standardize the interpretation of Article III, Paragraph 2 of the NPT.

Historical Development and Legal Framework

Following the entry into force of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in 1970, the Zangger Committee was established in 1971 to support the treaty’s implementation. The NPT is one of the most significant international agreements imposing binding obligations on states to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons. However, there were discrepancies and ambiguities regarding the interpretation of its provisions. To address these uncertainties, the Zangger Committee was formed to develop a common framework for the interpretation of Article III, Paragraph 2.

The committee’s primary function is to oversee nuclear materials and technologies, ensuring that these materials are not used for non-peaceful purposes. In 1974, the committee introduced the "Trigger List," a regulatory framework that systematized nuclear export controls. This list specifies nuclear materials, equipment, and technologies subject to export controls, reinforcing oversight mechanisms.

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Mandate and Responsibilities

One of the most significant functions of the Zangger Committee is to harmonize nuclear export policies among NPT signatories and establish a uniform standard. The committee’s primary responsibilities include:

Updating and Publishing the Trigger List

The Trigger List outlines nuclear equipment and materials that are "specifically designed or prepared" for nuclear use and are subject to export controls. Published by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as part of the INFCIRC/209 series, this list helps NPT signatories shape their nuclear export policies.

Ensuring Compliance with Export Controls

The committee ensures that member states take measures to prevent the military use of nuclear materials and technology. It collaborates with the IAEA to enforce international inspections and non-proliferation commitments.

Establishing a Coordination Mechanism Among States

The committee facilitates information sharing and the development of joint policies to prevent the misuse of nuclear technology. It promotes cooperation among member states to strengthen non-proliferation efforts.

Membership and Governance Structure

The Zangger Committee currently consists of 39 members, including all nuclear-armed states. These countries play a direct role in shaping international nuclear export regulations. Key figures who have led the committee include:

Claude Zangger (Switzerland): The first chairman, who played a foundational role in shaping the committee’s structure.
Ilkka Mäkipentti (Finland), Fritz W. Schmidt (Austria), Pavel Klucký (Czech Republic), Shawn Caza (Canada): Served as chairpersons during different periods.
Louise Fluger Callesen (Denmark): The current chairperson since 2015.

This governance structure enables the Zangger Committee to continuously adapt its policies and contribute to international nuclear security frameworks.

Role in Global Nuclear Non-Proliferation Efforts

The Zangger Committee plays a pivotal role in global nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation efforts, particularly in the following areas:

Strengthening the NPT

The export control mechanisms developed by the Zangger Committee help NPT signatories fulfill their obligations. The committee actively participates in the NPT Review Conferences, which are held every five years.

Cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

The committee enhances the IAEA’s oversight capabilities and ensures nuclear material trade compliance. The Trigger List (INFCIRC/209) has been integrated into the IAEA’s regulatory framework to strengthen global nuclear security.

Coordination with Other Export Control Regimes

The Zangger Committee collaborates with other international export control regimes, such as the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), the Australia Group, and the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). These partnerships establish an effective global mechanism to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and related technologies.

The Zangger Committee serves as a technical and diplomatic mechanism that plays a critical role in preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons on a global scale. Established to support the implementation of the NPT, the committee standardizes nuclear export controls and prevents the misuse of nuclear materials and technologies. With 39 member states, the committee works in collaboration with the IAEA to strengthen international nuclear disarmament frameworks. As a crucial element of global security, the Zangger Committee remains an essential platform for supporting international peace and preventing nuclear proliferation.

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