Dual-use Research and Trade Controls: Opportunities and Controversies

This article intends to clarify the role of trade controls in relation to dual-use research, stimulate the debate on the possible contribution of trade controls to the broader governance of sensitive research, and inspire ways to achieve this in practice. First, the article discusses the different interpretations of the term dual-use research by highlighting its relevance in the context of for export controlled research activities. Second, the article explores why there is a nexus between trade controls and research. In this regard, the added value and known shortcomings connected to trade control implementation is presented. The article discusses the European and American experience in implementing trade controls to research activities. In addition, by the recent European Commission (EC) proposal for the review of the dual-use regulation. Finally, the article presents a typology of measures presently governing dual-use research while highlighting their synergetic value when applied in combination with trade controls.

CHARATSIS Christos; 

2017-08-01

European Studies Unit, University of Liege

JRC106373

2506-9691,   

http://www.str.ulg.ac.be/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Dual-use-Research-and-Trade-Controls-Opportunities-and-Controversies.pdf,    https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC106373,