Preparing for the Next WMD Elimination Mission: Lessons Learned from Past Experiences

Abstract

Objective: In recent decades, there have been a number of opportunities for the United States to participate in WMD elimination. Yet the United States and its partners constantly reinvent the wheel instead of integrating lessons from past efforts. This project’s research will provide a comprehensive analysis of key strategic, diplomatic, legal, interagency, and intra-governmental lessons from WMD elimination efforts. Furthermore, it will help the United States and others prepare for and improve future elimination missions as well as aiding those trying to dissuade countries from developing WMD. Finally, this research will provide elimination practitioners with a better understanding of their role in future disarmament efforts.