On 11-12 May, 2016 the Center for the Study of Weapons of Mass Destruction (CSWMD) held its annual symposium, titled Weapons of Mass Destruction: Challenges for the Next Administration. Approximately 300 attendees were in attendance as WMD expert panels presented their views on key WMD challenges facing the next U.S. administration.
The two day event covered a wide range of current and emerging WMD issue areas. Day one examined regional nuclear deterrence challenges, insights into countering the North Korean WMD threat, and considerations for the next round of strategic guidance. Day one also hosted distinguished guest speakers who discussed the strategic context for counter WMD and strategic deterrence, as well as SOCOM’s role in countering WMD. Day two examined new chemical and biological weapons threats, strategic consequences of the Iran nuclear agreement, and concerns regarding protecting the homeland from WMD terrorism. Distinguished guest speakers added their views on the WMD terrorism threat and challenges facing the next administration. Both days’ panels were moderated by CSWMD staff.