Fourth issue of 1540 Compass: Emerging Technologies: Challenges and Opportunities

From AI to blockchain, emerging technologies are reshaping the landscape of WMD non-proliferation. This issue of the 1540 Compass explores how innovation can serve as both a challenge and a catalyst for stronger implementation of UNSCR 1540.The 1540 Compass is an e-journal dedicated to advancing the objectives, awareness, and implementation of United Nations Security Council resolution 1540 (2004) (UNSCR 1540) and its successor resolutions. The journal aims to be a trusted source of knowledge, analysis, and dialogue for countering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and their means of delivery by non-State actors.The fourth issue explores how rapid technological advances are reshaping the non-proliferation landscape. This theme focuses on the intersection of critical te...

Crimes Associated with Critical Minerals in Southeast Asia: Trends, Challenges and Solutions

The Report Crimes Associated with Critical Minerals in Southeast Asia: Trends, Challenges and Solutions, offers a regionally focused analysis of the risks and vulnerabilities posed by illicit activity in the critical minerals sector. As Southeast Asia’s role in supplying minerals is essential to the global energy transition and digital technologies expand, so too does its exposure to environmental crime, corruption, and illicit financial flows.The report highlights how the growing demand for minerals such as nickel, tin, rare earth elements, and cobalt is creating opportunities for organised crime. These threats are compounded by insufficient traceability mechanisms, legal and institutional gaps, and limited enforcement capacity. The report calls for enhanced financial investigations, incr...

Toolkit on Effective CBRN Planning and Response for Policymakers and CBRN Managers

Chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) incidents pose a significant threat to global safety and security. These events can result in devastating human, environmental, and economic consequences, while also undermining public trust and social stability. Effectively managing CBRN risks requires a coordinated and strategic approach—one that goes beyond immediate response to include long-term planning, capacity building, and interagency collaboration.To address this need, UNICRI has developed the Toolkit on Effective CBRN Planning and Response for Policymakers and CBRN Managers. The publication is designed to support decision-makers—such as policymakers, emergency management officials, and CBRN managers—by providing practical, step-by-step guidance to strengthen national strategi...