Issue Briefs

One of the key non-proliferation breakthroughs of the past 30 years has been the end of large scale nuclear explosive tests. Accusations of hidden low-yield nuclear tests and threats to match any renewed testing between the nuclear great powers threaten the survival of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) and the broader non-proliferation architecture. This Issue Brief explores the current challenges and lays out how the moratorium on explosive nuclear weapons testing can be preserved.

In autumn 2025 Russian drone and airspace incursions over NATO territory exposed a dangerous new source of ambiguity in Europe’s security environment. As routine military friction, deliberate signalling, and civilian drone activity increasingly overlap, the risk of miscalculation is growing. This analysis examines how NATO members can manage escalation risks in an era of drone proliferation - by improving attribution, calibrating responses, and distinguishing incidents that matter from those that do not.

This Deep Cuts Commission Issue Brief analyzes the factors currently shaping the feasibility of nuclear arms control, assesses the suitability of traditional instruments, and proposes alternative formats that could help stabilize relations among the major powers.

This YDCC Policy Brief explores the current state of efforts to advance inclusive risk reduction, victim assistance and environmental remediation within the NPT framework.

Deterrence is back in Northern Europe. This Issue Brief lays out different approaches of Scandinavian states of balancing deterrence, reassurance and military self-restraint as they reevaluate their security strategies.