International conference on the relationship between disarmament and development

In its efforts to achieve its separate goals in the field of disarmament and development, the United Nations has, since its inception, become progressively involved with the relationship between these two vital issues facing the international community. As early as 1950, the General Assembly recognized, by resolution 380 (V), that it was necessary for the international community to “reduce to a minimum the diversion for armaments of its human and economic resources and to strive towards the development of such resources for the general welfare, with due regard to the needs of the underdeveloped areas of the world”. Since then, the Assembly has frequently returned to the subject, and expressions of concern at the continuing military expenditures, calls for diverting resources released through disarmament to socio-economic development, and interest in examining the various issues raised by the relationship between disarmament and development have all contributed to a growing United Nations involvement.

Related Subject(s): Disarmament