A nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. The only value in our two nations possessing nuclear weapons is to make sure they will never be used. But then would it not be better to do away with them entirely?"  – Ronald Reagan

Delegates,
United Nations was established on 24th October 1945, to ensure humanity never suffered as it had previously. Due to this very need of collective security and aim of international peace, The First Committee, Disarmament and International Security emerged. Now, the Committee must deliberate upon the rising issue of weaponry and warfare, which despite its evolution, presents a fundamental question- How can States carry out disarmament, without it causing legitimate security concerns?

The difficulty faced is not merely of reducing weapons, but acknowledging and facing the political, legal, technological and economic consequences. Therefore, in this session, the Committee shall discuss Global Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Efforts, with special emphasis on countering the spread of untraceable Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) and advancing Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zones. Delegates will be called forth to examine the adequacy of existing international mechanisms, assess gaps existing between international commitment and its implementation, as well offer solutions to how can States further the implementation of disarmament without compromising sovereignty or raising legitimate security concerns.

The issue before the Committee is much more nuanced than the question of how many weapons exist, but rather where, when and how are they being used. The Committee must navigate the issue of Small Arms and Lightweight Weapons, which have created hostile conditions for many, as well as advancement of Nuclear Free Zones, all of which raises concerns regarding sovereignty, verifications, deterrence and disarmament.

Delegates, remember, removal and destruction of weapons is not the end goal which the committee seeks to fulfill. Rather, it is ensuring collective peace does not depend upon disarmament, but is a product of collective trust and security between States.

With this, we would like to welcome to you the United Nations General Assembly, Disarmament and International Security Committee.