Collaboration in the realm of nuclear disarmament

The European Union has announced a new funding framework that offers support for various applications aimed at enhancing global security and promoting climate action. The framework provides contact details for nuclear, conventional (both outside and in the area), chemical and biological, cyber, and export control applications.

In the nuclear field, projects contribute to the safeguarding and destruction of nuclear material, as well as the enhancement of biological and chemical security. These initiatives also support the implementation and expansion of non-proliferation and control regimes in the nuclear field.

Projects in the conventional area are used to prevent the proliferation of conventional weapons in post-conflict situations. Additionally, they aim to strengthen capacities in partner countries. In the weapons of mass destruction field, projects also contribute to the strengthening of international agreements and instruments in this area.

The global export control architecture is strengthened through capacity building and the exchange of experience in the export control area. Projects in the chemical and biological fields also aim to contribute to the strengthening of international agreements and instruments in this area.

The current funding framework includes a large-scale federal program financed by the Climate and Transformation Fund. This program focuses on reducing CO2 emissions in industries such as chemical production and conventional energy use. The initial funding round, amounting to 2.8 billion euros, supported companies replacing fossil fuel-based steam production with greener technologies, with a second funding round currently underway, boasting a budget in the low double-digit billion euro range. The EU Hydrogen Bank auctions are also supporting projects for low-CO2 hydrogen production, distributing nearly 2 billion euros in total up to 2025, aimed at significant CO2 savings and requiring projects to commence production within five years post-contract.

Applications from individuals are excluded, and projects must adopt gender-sensitive approaches. The deadline for application is at least 12 weeks before the start of the project, and there are no other regulations regarding the submission of applications beyond the time limit. Own or third-party funds must be provided for funding; full funding is only granted in very well-founded exceptional cases.

It's important to note that no funding guideline or concept is provided, and expenditures for cost-based applications are excluded. The duration of these programs varies, with EU hydrogen projects having contracts that must be signed by late 2025 and project execution expected within about five years, while the federal program’s timeline is currently open-ended "until the funds are exhausted," with continued rounds planned.

This comprehensive funding framework offers a unique opportunity for organisations to contribute to global security and climate action, while also supporting the development and implementation of innovative technologies aimed at reducing CO2 emissions.