International Science and Technology Center together with Arab Institute for Security Studies are pleased to announce the launch of the second cycle of the "Amman Security Challenge".

The ISTC and AISS aim to facilitate the engagement and contribution of young professionals, (strongly encouraging female applicants) in the fields of security, arms control and strategic issues. The competition aims to empower a next generation of leaders capable of positively contributing to the security and nonproliferation debate.

The ISTC and AISS welcome written contributions on one (or a combination) of the following tracks (roughly 2000 to 2500 words):

- Non-Proliferation of WMDs and Non-Conventional capabilities

- Achieving gender parity in arms control and disarmament efforts

- Preventing Non-State Actors from accessing, possessing and utilizing CBRN

- Prospects of establishing a WMD Free Zone in the Middle East

- Effective methods to link the Women, Peace and Security Agenda (WPS) with Arms Control

- Comprehensive integration of gender perspectives in the implementation of UNSCR 1540

- Advancing nuclear security, biosecurity, chemical security and cyber security in fragile environments

- The Deterrence Debate; Has Non-Conventional Deterrence achieved its objectives?

- Supporting legislative norms: NPT, CWC, BTWC and CTBT and other structures

- Delivery vehicles and missile capabilities; Impact on the Middle East

- Written contributions in issues of relevance are

The International Science and Technology Center and Arab Institute for Security Studies especially encourage female applicants, the challenge is open to postgraduate students, military personnel, young professionals, researchers and diplomats (up to 38 years old). We accept written contributions in the English language.

ISTC will select two candidates from ISTC Participant Countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan,   Tajikistan, Armenia and Georgia). The selected candidates will be offered the chance to join a specialized international conference on WMDs the first week of November, 2023. Qualified candidates will orally present their written contributions in front of a live audience. The organizers will cover registration fees for participants at the event. ISTC will cover airfare, airport transfer, accommodation and meals for selected participants during their stay in Amman.

Deadline for submitting written contributions preferably on 20 August 2023.

Questions or Comments: we encourage you to submit a short abstract before officially submitting your paper.

For further details please send your queries to the following address: a_frith@istc.int