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This publication contains the report of the Group of Governmental Experts to make recommendations on possible aspects that could contribute to but not negotiate a treaty banning the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices, which held four sessions in 2014 and 2015. In the report, the Group outlined the details of its deliberations, characterized the range of expert views on aspects of a treaty and presented its conclusions and recommendations. Also included for reference are the related General Assembly resolutions, the Shannon report and views of Member …

This publication contains the presentations made during the Nuclear Discussion Forum held on 24 March, 22 June and 17 November 2015 in New York. It aims to capture the lively discussions and rich debates that took place and to share the insights presented at the Forum with disarmament bodies working on nuclear non-proliferation, disarmament and security. …

This study was prepared on the recommendation of the Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters. It examines the characteristics of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), how international law applies to the use of armed UAVs to conduct targeted strikes outside areas of active hostilities, and ideas for improving transparency, oversight and accountability in the development, acquisition, stockpiling, transfer and use of armed UAVs. If you have comments or queries, please email UNODA-web@un.org …

The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) implements the decisions of the General Assembly on disarmament matters. UNODA: Provides substantive and organizational support for norm-setting in the area of disarmament through the work of the General Assembly and its First Committee, the UN Disarmament Commission, the Conference on Disarmament and other bodies; Fosters disarmament measures through dialogue, transparency and confidence-building in military matters; Encourages regional disarmament efforts. The issues listed on the Everyday Disarmament Cards are core topics and concerns that UNODA deals with regularly, and guide its efforts to provide substantive support to expert groups, organize seminars, prepare and disseminate publications, inaugurate exhibits, launch media events, and promote outreach and advocacy. Dimensions : 2.16" x …

This report illustrates how the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs has been able to achieve concrete results though partnerships with its donors, and how essential such support is in attaining important disarmament goals. …

Summarizes developments and trends in 2014 on key issues of multilateral consideration at the international and regional levels. Reviews the activity of the General Assembly, the Conference on Disarmament and the Disarmament Commission. Contains a timeline that highlights events in multilateral disarmament in 2014. Has a foreword written by the Acting High Representative for Disarmament Affairs. …

In December 2013, upon completion of the UN Mission to Investigate Allegations of the Use of Chemical Weapons in the Syrian Arab Republic, the Secretary-General called for a lessons-learned process to strengthen preparedness in order to enhance the effective application of the Secretary-General’s Mechanism (SGM) and its Guidelines in future investigations. As a result, UNODA launched a comprehensive lessons-learned exercise with generous financial support from interested donors. A review of the challenges and areas for enhancing the operational readiness of the SGM in light of the experience in Syria has proven highly beneficial, including through identifying lessons in light of the uniqueness of the Syria case. UNODA is pleased to share the final report of the exercise, including concrete conclusions and recommendations for strengthening the application of this important mechanism. This exercise has reinforced the value added of the SGM as well as supported the conclusion that the …

The 1972 Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) effectively prohibits the development, production, acquisition, transfer, retention, stockpiling and use of biological and toxin weapons and is a key element in the international community’s efforts to address the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. In 1986, BWC States Parties agreed to the exchange of Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs) "in order to prevent or reduce the occurrence of ambiguities, doubts and suspicions and in order to improve international cooperation in the field of peaceful biological activities". This guide has been prepared by UNODA with the support of the European Union in order to provide practical advice and guidance to officials responsible for preparing CBM submissions. Versions are also available in the other official UN languages. It is hoped that this guide will promote participation in the CBMs and enhance the quality of the information …

Compiles the resolutions and decisions of the sixty-ninth session of the General Assembly, the voting patterns in the General Assembly and the First Committee report and dates of their adoption. Contains a snapshot of votes by thematic cluster of resolution numbers, titles and votes in the sixty-ninth session of the General Assembly and in the First Committee. …