Wassenaarordningen

Wassenaarordningen, eller the Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls for Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods and Technologies, is a multilateral forum that coordinates export controls for conventional arms and dual-use items. It was established in 1995 and takes its name from Wassenaar, Netherlands, where the first plenary meeting was held. Participation is voluntary and non-binding; states retain national sovereignty over licenses but commit to harmonizing controls, reducing the risk that transfers could contribute to regional instability, and increasing transparency about transfers.

Scope and controls: The arrangement covers conventional weapons as well as dual-use goods and technologies that can have military applications or contribute to military capabilities. It operates with two main control lists: the Dual-Use List (goods and technologies with civilian and potential military uses) and the Munitions List for conventional arms. Items on these lists are subject to national licensing policies, and transfers to destinations of concern may be denied or conditioned more stringently. End-use and end-user considerations are emphasized to prevent diversion.

Structure and operation: Plenaries are held annually to review and update control lists and guidelines. Working groups address list changes, end-use/end-user verification, and information exchange. Participating states share licensing information, denials, and other compliance data, contributing to greater transparency in international trade.

Membership and relation to other regimes: The WA comprises 41 participating states and the European Union, which participates as a supranational entity. It operates alongside other export-control regimes such as the Missile Technology Control Regime, the Australia Group, and the Nuclear Suppliers Group, with the aim of reinforcing responsible transfers of arms and dual-use technologies worldwide.