State Department Seeks Public’s Input on Arms Control Transparency

The State Department on Aug. 28 launched the “Innovation in Arms Control Challenge” to elicit the public’s help on how to apply commonly available technologies in support of arms control policies. “The astonishing advancements in information technologies include new tools and capabilities that could help support arms control transparency and compliance,” reads the department’s release. Officials seek to harness “the ingenuity of the American people” to determine whether, for example, there are innovative new ways to prevent “loose nukes” from falling into the hands of terrorists, or if smartphone and tablet applications could aid onsite inspectors in verifying and monitoring armaments and sensitive materials, states the release. The contest runs until Oct. 26 and is open to all US citizens or permanent residents. Cash awards range up to $10,000. (Click here for official rules and guidelines.)