Weapons of mass destruction brain drain from Russia: Problems and perspectives

Abstract

Problems of brain drain along with problems of intangible technologies transfers have become some of the most acute problems today. Nobody has found a way yet to prevent intangible technologies transfers since any limitation in migration and travel conflicts with democratic values. For Russia the situation is the most problematic. Increasing economic collapse, a huge amount of unemployed scientists, and a lack of legislative enforcement makes the brain drain massive and uncontrolled. The brain drain from the defense industry, particularly of experts who worked previously for weapons of mass destruction programs, is an acute danger. The rogue states that try to set up their own nuclear military programs are looking for these scientists and invite them since it is not enough to steal nuclear materials to create a nuclear bomb. The rogue states mostly lack skills and knowledge. Brain drain from Russia is a growing threat to nonproliferation. However, as there are no statistics, there is a lot of speculation on this issue. This article addresses measures, which could prevent scientists from leaving Russia and measures that already have been undertaken. It discusses whether scientists need to leave the country to assist rogue states, or they could do it from their own homes; furthermore this article tries to compile statistics on the weapons of mass destruction brain drain.