UNSCR 1540: Challenge and Potential in the Non-Proliferation Regime

In April of 2004, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) unanimously approved resolution 1540, requiring all UN member states to “adopt and enforce” nonproliferation safeguards and export controls. The resolution is a bold new approach to combating the spread of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), specifically in its attempt to prevent weapons materials from falling into the hands of non-state actors. It seeks to raise awareness of the need for states to establish firm control of WMD-related materials and increase the transparency of each member state’s safeguard operations. However, many questions and challenges remain. How compliant will Member States be with 1540? The unclear guidelines of the resolution allow states some flexibility to interpret the resolution’s requirements. Questions also remain about its impact on the existing nonproliferation regime. How will 1540 affect international perception of current treaties and norms? The Committee must face these questions and determine a productive process for the UN to evaluate and promote improvements in existing safeguards and export controls. If they are successful, the continuation of the process could be a crucial tool in detecting areas of danger and ultimately improving global security. In this paper we will offer predictions of 1540's ultimate impact and address some of the obstacles that could stymie its success.