Proliferation Security Initiative Overview

Proliferation Security Initiative

The Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) is a global effort that aims to prevent shipments of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), their delivery systems and related materials, to and from states and non-state actors of proliferation concern.

PSI participants are deeply concerned about the threat of WMD proliferation, and about the danger posed by WMD in the hands of terrorists.

Under the PSI countries commit to disrupting the illicit trade in WMD by interdicting vessels, aircraft or other modes of transport in or over their territory or territorial waters that are reasonably suspected of carrying illicit cargo.

The PSI has transformed how nations act together against proliferation, harnessing their diplomatic, military, law enforcement and intelligence assets in a multinational, yet flexible, fashion.

In October 2003, the United Kingdom, United States, Germany and Italy acting under the auspices of PSI stopped an illegal cargo of centrifuge parts to be used for uranium enrichment in Libya. This interdiction led to the welcome decision by Libya to renounce its WMD programs.

The PSI builds on the existing network of arms control and counter-proliferation regimes and treaties which already exist, and has been praised by UN Secretary General Annan as an important way to "fill a gap in our defences".

The PSI Statement of Interdiction Principles expressly commits all participants to take action to interdict illicit WMD transfers where appropriate, to the extent that their national legal systems permit and consistent with their obligations under international law and frameworks.

More than 80 states now support PSI, and this number is steadily increasing.

Australia's commitment to PSI

Australia one of the principal drivers of the PSI.

Countering the threat of WMD proliferation is a key security priority for Australia, and participation in practical initiatives, such as the PSI, is an important component of Australia's multidimensional strategy in addressing this growing threat.

Australia has demonstrated its commitment through its decision to host the first ever PSI exercise, PACIFIC PROTECTOR 03, and by our ongoing participation in PSI exercises around the world, such as TEAM SAMURAI 04 in Japan, and DEEP SABRE 05 hosted by Singapore.

In April 2006, Australia hosted Exercise PACIFIC PROTECTOR 06, an air/ground interdiction exercise around Darwin.

Australia has attended nearly all PSI exercises and has hosted major PSI meetings in 2003 and 2004.

For more information on Australia's arms control and counter-proliferation policies, visit the website of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and trade at: http://www.dfat.gov.au.

 

Information current at 13 July 2006