2020 was the first full year in operation for Open Nuclear Network, OEF’s newest program with the mission of leveraging open source data to reduce the risk of the inadvertent use of nuclear weapons. ONN was able to establish itself operationally, with offices in Vienna, Austria, and recruit a geographically diverse team of analysts. ONN also catalyzed its Engagement Network, a group of ten highly regarded former senior officials and experts; two each from China, Japan, Russia, South Korea and the United States, each of whom is known for his or her expertise in connection with the Korean conflict and has access to decision-makers in his/her respective countries. ONN hopes eventually to include members from the DPRK.
ONN published its analysis of the potential conflict escalation pathways on the Korean Peninsula, as well as the first ever code of ethics for open source intelligence (OSINT). By closely monitoring the conflict and potential negotiations on an ongoing basis, ONN’s aim is to put the right information into the right hands in time to make a difference, and create a shareable representation of reality in order to improve Track 1.5 diplomacy between North Korea, its neighbors, and the United States. ONN has positioned itself well in its first year to achieve its mission.
- Invited to brief a committee of the US Congress on OSINT and ONN's mission of conflict de-escalation by leveraging open source data analysis with its Engagement Network
- Invited by the UN Office of Disarmament Affairs to provide a brief on ONN's activities and offer its recommendations for conflict de-escalation on the Korean Peninsula and possible collaboration
- Established close working relationship with the IAEA's Department of Safeguards
Program Incubation Progress
