Dual-use items
What are dual-use items?
Some items used in research can be applied in both civilian and military contexts. These are called dual-use items.
Dual use items can be harmless in a research context, but harmful in the wrong hands. They can be misused to violate human rights, to threaten international security, or to contribute to the development of weapons of mass destruction.
Because of this risk, dual-use items fall under a strict EU Dual-Use Regulation that closely monitors how these items are exported, transferred or shared.
They cover a broad category of products. Common examples of dual-use include:
-
Aerospace or drone technologies
-
Encryption tools or cybersecurity systems
-
Advanced electronics (e.g. certain chips, lasers)
-
Nuclear or radiological materials
-
Certain chemicals or lab substances
Dual-use is not limited to physical items. Software, technology, and services can also fall under dual-use regulation.
If you're working on, developing, or transferring dual-use items, you may need official authorization. Not sure? Don’t guess. Check below or contact RRI@uhasselt.be.
Is my research dual-use and what do I need to do?
Use the steps below to check whether your research falls under dual-use or military regulations, and what action you need to take:
|
STEPS |
ACTION AND PROCEDURE |
|---|---|
|
Step 1 |
Check whether your research item is on the EU Common Military List, or specifically intended for military use. Listed items require a follow-up. Contact RRI@uhasselt.be to initiate the procedure. |
|
Step 2 |
Check whether your research item is listed in the dual-use items list (Annex I) of the EU Dual-Use Regulation. Listed items require authorization for export to non-EU countries. ! Some highly sensitive items in Annex I also appear in Annex IV of the EU Dual-Use Regulation. If also listed in Annex IV, authorization is also needed for export within the EU. If listed, contact RRI@uhasselt.be to initiate the process. |
|
Step 3 |
Check whether the end-user is located in a high-risk country or is a military/defence-related actor. If so, contact RRI@uhasselt.be for a risk assessment. |
Exceptions
You may not need authorization if:
-
Your research qualifies as basic scientific research.
-
The information is already in the public domain.
-
The export is covered by a General Export Authorisation.
Still unsure? Ask us.
Send your questions to RRI@uhasselt.be. We’re here to help you comply and protect your research.
Want to know more? A quick guide to the EU Dual-Use Regulation
The EU Dual-Use Regulation sets out when authorization is required for exporting or transferring dual-use items.
You need export authorization if:
-
Your item is listed in Annex I – Mandatory for export outside the EU.
-
Your item is listed in Annex IV – Authorization required even within the EU.
-
The “Catch-All” Clause applies – Authorization is required even if the item isn’t listed, but you know (or suspect) it could be used for:
-
Weapons of mass destruction
-
Military use in embargoed countries
-
Parts for illegally exported military items
-
Cybersurveillance likely to violate human rights
-
Want to Know More? Consult the Guideline for researchers on dual use and misuse of research, created by the Flemish Interuniversity Council (VLIR).
Contact us!
Dual-use issues aren’t always obvious. If you're unsure whether your research is subject to dual-use regulations always check before proceeding.
Contact us at RRI@uhasselt.be.