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Nowadays, the most important issues that concern Europe
and the entire world are terrorism, arms control and international
security. Lack of education and information on the aforementioned subjects
can lead to misinterpretation of intelligence which in turn can lead to the
wrong political decisions.
The 9/11 terrorist attack introduced an era of uncertainty fear and
awe for the civilized world. International terrorism has already attacked
many European countries underlining the fact that counter-terrorism is not
an American issue as is often suggested.
Moreover, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD)
combined with the inadequate security measures in the countries which
possess them enhances the possibility of a destruction of colossal
dimensions. It is therefore obvious that Europe
should actively embark on a campaign against WMD which will be precise and
prudent where no collateral damage will be acceptable.
On the other hand, Europe, instead of passively following the
doctrines of the USA,
should emerge as an independent and powerful force in the new millennium. A
unified well coordinated European Army should balance the universal
influence of the USA.
The European Armed Forces operating under the aegis of NATO, but without
losing their autonomy and independence, could pose as a stabilizing and
peace-keeping factor for the entire world.
Admittedly, the military excellence of the USA is largely due to the
scientific excellence of their armed forces. It is therefore imperative
that the European scientific community mobilizes in order to strengthen the
European military science while at the same time informing the public and
their governments about all arms control issues. This urgent necessity gave
birth to ATHENA.
ATHENA, the Hellenic Arms
Control Center,
will attempt to challenge the American excellence in the field of Arms
Control and Non-proliferation. Of course, this is not an easy task and it
might be some time before ATHENA becomes part of the
picture. In the mean time, we are confident that the scientific community,
both in Europe and its allied states, will
respond enthusiastically to our venture and become members of ATHENA.
ATHENA is a membership-based, non-profit, nongovernmental scientific
organization which relies on your participation and contribution. All
proceeds from contributions, donations, subsidies and advertisements will
support the fellows, the interns and the activities of the Center. ATHENA’s
non-commercial nature ensures that your contribution will be respected and
used for a good cause.
Until ATHENA achieves its full potential there will
be an incubation period, which calls for your lenience and patience.
Once ATHENA has become fully functional Europe will
be proud of its first and most-ambitious Arms Control
Center.
Join us and let’s shape ATHENA together.
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