Chen Kane
December 11, 2015
The Middle East Next Generation of Arms Control Specialists Network: Fostering Today, Tomorrow’s Middle East Arms Control Leaders
The Middle East Next Generation of Arms Control Specialists Network (MENACS), a network of young experts from the Middle East, is initiating a yearlong project aimed at strengthening participation of Middle Eastern delegations in the Biological and Toxin Weapons Review Conference process. Throughout the project, Middle Eastern young professionals from the MENACS Network will be paired with Middle Eastern delegations and observer states for the purpose of strengthening these delegations’ ability to highlight their work that aligns with the mission of the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention.
The project will officially commence at the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention Meeting of States Parties in Geneva, Switzerland on December 14-18, 2015. MENACS members will make a statement during a public session on Monday, December 14th, extending their offer to assist Middle Eastern delegations and observer states in their preparation toward and during the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention Review Conference, which will take place in Geneva in December 2016. MENACS members will engage with these delegations in conducting background research as well as formulate relevant information into official speeches, statements, and documents to be submitted to the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention Review Conference. Members of the Network will also offer to join their delegations for one to three weeks during the review conference, or participate as an observer.
MENACS members are particularly suited to assist Middle Eastern countries in this endeavor given their knowledge of the regional cultures and languages (Arabic, Farsi, Hebrew, and Turkish), providing the ability to research in a target language and thus increasing the amount of available information to be reported. As the Network members are from the region, they understand and are comfortable working with the region’s unique cultural and political sensitivities. In parallel to MENACS efforts, a similar assistance will also be offered to other delegations by additional young professional groups and will thus ensure that any interested delegations are able to partner with a young professional.
This project is beneficial to BWC delegations and young professionals alike, offering free assistance to BWC delegates and professional experience for young professionals.
Visit the MENACS website to learn more about the network, its activities, and member publications.
Also visit to learn more about becoming a member or affiliate of MENACS.
