Disarmament and International Security (First Committee)

First Committee

The First Committee deals with disarmament, global challenges and threats to peace that affect the international community and seeks out solutions to the challenges in the international security regime.

It considers all disarmament and international security matters within the scope of the Charter or relating to the powers and functions of any other organ of the United Nations; the general principles of cooperation in the maintenance of international peace and security, as well as principles governing disarmament and the regulation of armaments; promotion of cooperative arrangements and measures aimed at strengthening stability through lower levels of armaments.

The Committee works in close cooperation with the United Nations Disarmament Commission and the Geneva-based Conference on Disarmament. It is the only Main Committee of the General Assembly entitled to verbatim records coverage.

The First Committee sessions are structured into three distinctive stages:

  1. General debate
  2. Thematic discussions
  3. Action on drafts

It is the only Main Committee of the General Assembly entitled to verbatim records coverage pursuant to Rule 58 (a) of the rules of procedure of the General Assembly.

Working Methods

Over the years, efforts have been made to rationalize the work of the Committee, concentrating on rearranging its agenda and improving its organization of work (see resolution 42/42 [N] of 30 November 1987).

Landmark Documents

Webcast

In line with General Assembly resolution 66/246, the formal meetings of the First Committee are webcast live on UN Web TV.

Live coverage of the formal meetings is available in the six UN official languages plus the original language of the speaker. Archive videos are also available on a dedicated Committee page.

Quick Links

Key Documents

Resources