Andalo (Trento), 11 – 18 January 2026
Nuclear Risk, Technological Disruption, and International Conflict in an Age of Turbulence
Director of the School: Carlo Schaerf (Isodarco, Rome, Italy)
Directors of the Course: Poul Christiansen (Pugwash Conferences, Oxford, UK), Francesca Giovannini (Managing the Atom, HKS, Harvard Univ., MA, USA), Steven Miller (Belfer Center, HKS, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA)
With support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York and the Raymond Frankel Foundation
Description
In recent years, the global security landscape has become increasingly volatile, shaped by a convergence of geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, and evolving nuclear doctrines. The post-Cold War order that once provided a measure of predictability in global security has eroded. Conflicts such as the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific, and strategic competition between major powers have reshaped alliances and strategic postures.
At the same time, disruptive technologies including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, hypersonic missiles, and cyber threats – are adding new layers of complexity to both nuclear and conventional deterrence dynamics. These technologies are not only distorting the information landscape but also compressing decision-making timelines and complicating signaling mechanisms, increasing the risk of miscalculation.
Effectively managing nuclear escalation risks in this environment will require a combination of innovative diplomacy, technological safeguards, and renewed dialogue mechanisms to rebuild trust, reduce misperceptions, and stabilize strategic relations.
The ISODARCO 2026 Winter Course presents an invaluable opportunity for students and experts to discuss and examine these dynamics in depth and explore approaches to re-establishing strategic stability and reducing nuclear dangers in a volatile world.