Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) proudly represented Malaysia at the Second Erlangen Conference 2024, which took place on November 20-21 in Nuremberg, Germany. This important event was organized by the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA). It brought together experts and stakeholders from over 20 countries to explore the critical relationship between export control and academia.
The conference, part of the Erlangen Initiative, provided a unique platform for dialogue among governments, regulatory authorities, and academic institutions focused on the implementation of United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolution 1540 (2004). This resolution emphasizes the importance of preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction by managing the transfer of sensitive technologies and knowledge. Discussions at the conference centered around building effective frameworks, fostering collaboration, and addressing the evolving challenges posed by dual-use technologies.
Keynote addresses highlighted the essential role of academia in fostering a “culture of responsibility.” Notable speakers included Christopher King, Chief of the Weapons of Mass Destruction Branch at UNODA, and Dr. Robert Dieter, Director for Export Control at Germany’s Federal Foreign Office. They emphasized the need to balance academic freedom with security concerns. Dr. Mandy Pastohr, President of BAFA, called for enhanced regional collaboration and the development of non-binding guidelines to promote safe research practices.
Participants engaged in discussions on topics such as research ethics, risk assessment, and the implications of dual-use technologies, which encompass sensitive biological and chemical research. Dr. Mark Bromley, Senior Researcher at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), addressed the complexities of export controls in the context of emerging technologies and their impact on international research collaborations.
UTM’s participation reflects its strong commitment to responsible research and global security. Facilitated by the Strategic Trade Secretariat (STS) of Malaysia’s Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI), UTM played a key role in advocating for regional collaboration and aligning research practices with international standards. This involvement highlights UTM’s dedication to advancing ethical academic practices and contributing to global efforts to address the risks associated with sensitive research.
The conference concluded with a renewed focus on fostering sustainable networks between academia and regulatory bodies. By participating in these essential dialogues, UTM reaffirms its position as a leader in promoting responsible innovation and ensuring that science and technology are utilized for the benefit of humanity.
Source: UTM NewsHub