In an era of rising geopolitical tensions, disinformation, and eroding trust in international agreements, the critical role of nuclear verification is under the spotlight. A new special collection in the Zeitschrift für Friedens- und Konfliktforschung (ZeFKo) examines how verification regimes—essential for nonproliferation, arms control, and disarmament—can adapt to an increasingly unstable global landscape. 

The collection brings together technical, political, and social science perspectives, alongside regional insights, to explore the resilience and vulnerabilities of verification systems. While some regimes have demonstrated remarkable adaptability, others face significant challenges amid great-power competition, technological advancements, and the spread of misinformation. Some of the key questions addressed are: 

• How can verification mechanisms evolve to meet emerging threats? 

• What role do new technologies (e.g., AI, remote sensing) play in strengthening verification? 

• How do geopolitical rivalries impact the credibility of arms control agreements? 

• What lessons can be drawn from regional experiences in nuclear governance? 

The special issue is co-edited by: 

• Dr. Ana de la Varga (RWTH Aachen) 

• Prof. Dr. Malte Göttsche (CNTR / PRIF) 

• Dr. Hassan Elbahtimy (King’s College London) 

The full collection will be available soon via the ZeFKo website.