United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research

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United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research

Abbreviation	UNIDIR
Formation	1980
Type	Research institute
Headquarters	Geneva, Switzerland
Director	Robin Geiss
Parent organization	United Nations

The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is an autonomous institute within the United Nations established in 1980. It conducts research on disarmament and security with the aim of assisting the international community in their disarmament efforts.

History

UNIDIR was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1980, following a proposal by the United Nations Secretary-General. The institute was created to provide independent research on disarmament and related international security issues.

Objectives

The primary objectives of UNIDIR are to:

• Conduct research on disarmament and security issues.
• Provide a forum for dialogue and exchange of ideas among experts, policymakers, and practitioners.
• Assist in the development of practical measures for disarmament and arms control.
• Support the implementation of disarmament agreements and treaties.

Research Areas

UNIDIR's research covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Nuclear disarmament
• Conventional weapons control
• Cybersecurity
• Space security
• Emerging technologies and their impact on security
• Arms trade and small arms control

Activities

UNIDIR conducts various activities to fulfill its mandate, including:

• Publishing research reports, policy briefs, and working papers.
• Organizing conferences, workshops, and seminars.
• Providing training and capacity-building programs.
• Collaborating with other research institutions, international organizations, and civil society.

Governance

UNIDIR operates under the guidance of a Board of Trustees, which includes representatives from United Nations Member States, experts in disarmament and security, and members of the academic community. The Director of UNIDIR is appointed by the United Nations Secretary-General.

Funding

UNIDIR is funded through voluntary contributions from United Nations Member States, international organizations, foundations, and other donors. It also receives support from the United Nations regular budget.

See also

• United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs
• Conference on Disarmament
• Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons
• Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty
• Arms Trade Treaty

Related pages

• Disarmament
• International security
• United Nations General Assembly
• United Nations Secretary-General