Kaksinkäyttöisen

Kaksinkäyttöisen is a Finnish term that translates to "dual-use" in English. It refers to items, technologies, or knowledge that can be used for both civilian and military purposes. This concept is particularly relevant in international trade and security.

Dual-use items can range from simple tools to sophisticated technologies. For example, a chemical that is used in fertilizer production can also be a component in explosives. Similarly, advanced computer software used for scientific research could potentially be adapted for military applications like cyber warfare.

The dual-use nature of many goods and technologies poses a challenge for governments and international bodies. They must balance the benefits of free trade and technological advancement with the need to prevent the proliferation of weapons and maintain national security. Export control regulations are often put in place to monitor and restrict the transfer of dual-use items to countries or entities that might misuse them.

Identifying and classifying dual-use items requires careful consideration of their potential applications. International agreements and treaties, such as the Wassenaar Arrangement, aim to create common understandings and controls over the export and transfer of conventional arms and dual-use goods and technologies. The goal is to ensure that legitimate civilian uses are not unduly hindered while mitigating the risks associated with military applications.