A disarmament agenda to save humanity and our future

Disarmament Week seeks to promote awareness and better understanding of disarmament issues and their wide-ranging importance.

Beginning on 24 October, the anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, the week-long annual observance was first called for in the Final Document of the 1978 General Assembly Special Session on Disarmament (resolution S-10/2).

In 1995, the General Assembly invited governments, as well as non-governmental organisations (NGOs), to continue to participate actively in Disarmament Week (resolution 50/72 B, 12 December 1995) to promote better public understanding of disarmament issues.

Over the decades, countries have pursued disarmament to build a safer world and to protect humanity. Since the founding of the United Nations, disarmament and arms control have played a key role in preventing and resolving crises and armed conflicts. Heightened tensions and dangers are best resolved through political dialogue and serious negotiations rather than more weapons.

Weapons of mass destruction, in particular nuclear weapons, are still of paramount concern because of their destructive power, putting humanity at risk. The excessive accumulation and illicit trade in conventional weapons threaten international peace and security as well as sustainable development, while the use of heavy conventional weapons in populated areas puts civilians at serious risk.

New and emerging technologies applied to weapons, such as autonomy, risk global security and have received increased attention from the international community in recent years.

Disarmament measures are pursued for many reasons, including the maintenance of international peace and security, upholding the principles of humanity, protecting civilians, promoting sustainable development, building confidence among states, and preventing and ending armed conflict. Disarmament and arms control measures contribute to ensuring international and human security in the 21st century and should therefore be an integral part of a credible and effective collective security system.

The United Nations continues to welcome the efforts and engagement of a range of actors who contribute to a more secure and peaceful common future through disarmament, arms control and non-proliferation activities.