Delegates in the First Committee (Disarmament and International Security), concluding today’s thematic debate on conventional weapons, called for tighter safeguards against illicit arms transfers and diversion, binding global governance of autonomous weapons and updated tracing measures to address challenges posed by three-dimensional (3D) printed arms.
Delegations also highlighted the humanitarian consequences of anti-personnel mines, cluster munitions, improvised explosive devices and explosive weapons used in populated areas. Austria’s representative drew attention to damage to civilian infrastructure and essential services, including water, sanitation, electricity, healthcare and education. “In 2025, almost 70 per cent of child casualties verified by the UN were caused by explosive weapons”, she said. “This is unacceptable, and much more must be done to protect civilians, including children, in armed conflict.”
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Source: United Nations
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