Publication

The Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) is a US-led proposal to establish a comprehensive enforcement mechanism which aims to restrict trafficking of weapons of mass destruction and related materials. This report reviews its story to date and discusses possible avenues of progress. As an approach that is consistent with existing arms control regimes and other cooperative international agreements, the PSI has the potential to be part of an effective multi-faceted approach to preventing proliferation and non-compliance. In this paper, the authors focus on the impact of the PSI on maritime shipping, with particular emphasis on the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.