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Photo of the orientation session of the UN Youth Champions for Disarmament.
UN Youth Champions for Disarmament begin their journeys as advocates for disarmament!
Virtual

Logo of the Government of GermanyOn 20 February 2024, the UN Youth Champions for Disarmament met for the first-time in a virtual orientation session.  

The Youth Champions brought with them their diverse backgrounds, interests and perspectives and engaged in an interactive and enthusiastic discussion on their motivations for applying for the programme.

Job opportunities with UNODA
Paid Positions Available - UN Youth Champions for Disarmament

In addition to the call for applications to the UN Youth Champions for Disarmament Training Programme, the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs is creating three job opportunities for young professionals in its regional centres and offices to support the programme implementation at regional levels. 

To learn more and apply for the Junior Project Advisor positions, please see below:

#Leaders2Future share insights to engage youth in side event of the United Nations General Assembly First Committee
#Leaders2Future share insights to engage youth in side event of the United Nations General Assembly First Committee
United Nations Headquarters

On 23 October, Mr. Adedeji Ebo, Director and Deputy to the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, and H.E. Mr. Sangjin KIM, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Republic of Korea to the United Nations, joined a group of the #Leaders2Future in a side event of the United Nations General Assembly First Committee to share insights on the role of young people in advancing disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control objectives. Ms. Soo Hyun Kim, Political Affairs Officer and Youth4Disarmament lead with the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (ODA), and Ms. Marykate Monaghan, #Leaders2Future project lead, moderated the event. 

United Nations Youth Champions for Disarmament Training Programme (2nd edition) Seeks Applicants
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United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has made a major push to engage and empower young people, recognizing their participation as essential for identifying new solutions that will secure the breakthroughs that our world urgently needs.

From left to right: Ms. Elif Erginyavuz, ODA Leader to the Future, OSCE-ODA Scholar, and CTBTO-CENESS Research Fellow, H.E. Ambassador Thomas Göbel, President of the Conference on Disarmament, Mr. SON Minjae, youth intern for the Disarmament and Non-proliferation Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea and Ms. Isa Begemann, UN Youth Champion for Disarmament and ODA Leader to the Future.
Young leaders share their insights with Conference on Disarmament in formal plenary session
United Nations Office at Geneva

On 10 August 2023, five young leaders participated in a panel discussion held by the Conference on Disarmament facilitated by UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (ODA) to share their views on the Cessation of the nuclear arms race and nuclear disarmament (agenda item 1) as well as on the Prevention of nuclear war, including all related matters (agenda item 2).

#StepUp4Disarmament to mark the International Day against Nuclear Tests
#StepUp4Disarmament to mark the International Day against Nuclear Tests
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The #StepUp4Disarmament Youth Campaign is back for the third year running!

Building on the success of the two previous campaigns conducted in 2021 and 2022, the Office for Disarmament Affairs’ #Youth4Disarmament initiative and collaborating partners are calling on young people to #StepUp4Disarmament by either completing a distance of 8.29 kilometres or tracking 10.9k steps, an approximate equivalent, to mark the International Day against Nuclear Tests, on 29 August 2023.

The sixth session of the Leaders to the Future series.
Leaders to the Future discuss approaches for advancing diversity in the disarmament field
Zoom

For the sixth session of the Leaders to the Future Series, a group of young leaders joined together online to learn about approaches to strengthen inclusion and diversity within the disarmament field. The workshop took place on Friday 16 June, in commemoration of the International Day for Countering Hate Speech on 18 June.   

The annual International Day highlights how the impact of hate speech cuts across numerous UN areas of focus, from protecting human rights and preventing atrocities, to sustaining peace, achieving gender equality, and supporting children and youth.  

The latest workshop of the Leaders to the Future series on New and Emerging Technologies
Accountability, Ambiguity and Agency: Leaders to the Future share perspectives on new and emerging technologies
Zoom

On Wednesday 17 May, the Leaders to the Future gathered online to learn about the potential opportunities and challenges posed by new and emerging technologies to mark World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.  

The annual International Day provides an opportunity to discuss the advantages of using the internet and other information and communication technologies (ICTs) to build more sustainable societies, as well as the need to address and manage the potential challenges posed by emerging technologies.  

Panel discuss “Disarmament for Development: Rebalancing Military Expenditure with Development Priorities.” 
Youth, Member States, researchers and civil society discuss the relationship between disarmament and sustainable development
UN Headquarters, New York

On 27 April 2023, the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) convened a panel comprised of UN Youth Champions for Disarmament, Member State representatives, researchers and civil society as part of its event entitled “Disarmament for Development: Rebalancing Military Expenditure with Development Priorities.” 

Cover image for news story
UNODA engages with Harvard University to bring Youth4Disarmament leaders and students together to discuss art, design, and nuclear disarmament
Virtual
Through a series of exchanges with Harvard University, the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) has engaged in conversations with 17 students from the university’s Graduate School of Design. On 12 April 2023, UNODA’s #Youth4Disarmament initiative joined a session of the course to provide feedback on the students' projects and discuss interlinkages between art, design, and nuclear disarmament.
Cover photo for the D.N.A. and Multilateralism workshop
Leaders to the Future explore ways to strengthen multilateralism in the field of disarmament
Virtual

On Monday 24 April, the Leaders to the Future gathered for a virtual workshop on the role of multilateralism in the field of disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control to mark the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace.

Artwork from the Leaders to the Future
Leaders to the Future explore innovative approaches to promote peace: transforming destruction into creation with Humanium Metal
Virtual

On Friday 14 April, the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs’ (ODA) #Youth4Disarmament Initiative co-facilitated a creative session with IM Swedish Development Partner’s Humanium Metal a non-profit organization that transforms seized firearms into non-lethal commodities for peace, such as buttons, spoons, watches and crayons. The session was moderated by Marianna Campaldini, Humanium Metal Intern, and Lumnije Maksuti, Humanium Metal Fellow.

UNODA and UNOOSA discuss outer space elements of the Summit of the Future, in consultation with youth
UNODA and UNOOSA discuss outer space elements of the Summit of the Future, in consultation with youth
Virtual

Ahead of the 2024 Summit of the Future, the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and the United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) organized an online youth consultation on topics related to the peaceful uses of outer space.

Leaders to the Future discuss gender parity.
Leaders to the Future discuss ways to advance gender parity in the field of disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control
Virtual

On Monday 13 February 2023,  a group of 39 young leaders, from around the world, gathered to discuss the importance of gender parity in disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control (D.N.A.) in the second session of the “Leaders to the Future” series to mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11 February.

With generous financial support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, the online workshop series will engage the alumni members of the #Youth4Disarmament initiative on linkages between D.N.A. and numerous topics related to international peace and security.

A virtual event to celebrate and promote the "B flat ♭ , B sharp ♯ , Be inspired – Voices of Youth" publication was held on 20 March 2023.
Youth authors discuss disarmament during virtual event on World Storytelling Day
Virtual
To celebrate and promote the dissemination of the Voices of Youth publication, #Youth4Disarmament hosted a roundtable discussion with several of the contributing authors to share their stories and discuss the importance of storytelling as an avenue to engage and empower young people in disarmament efforts.
UN Youth Delegates meet with UNODA Staff in a hybrid meeting.
UNODA discuss ways to engage young people in disarmament with UN Youth Delegates
UN Headquarters, New York

On Thursday 9 February 2023, staff members from the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) met with a group of UN Youth Delegates to discuss the work of the United Nations and ways to engage young people on issues related to disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control.

Cover for the ClickDisarm Campaign
#Youth4Disarmament launches the #ClickDISARM campaign to mark the first-ever International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness
- Virtual

To commemorate and countdown to the International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness on 5 March, the #Youth4Disarmament initiative has launched the #ClickDISARM campaign.

As part of the activity, various features of the #Youth4Disarmament website will be highlighted to raise awareness on the opportunities provided to engage, educate, and empower young people on disarmament, using each letter of “DISARM” to spotlight the different avenues to:

Leaders to the Future discuss and present their recommendations to support the development of the Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace
Leaders to the Future discuss and present their recommendations to support the development of the Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace
Virtual

On 24 January, the International Day of Education, 46 young participants from around the world attended an interactive webinar to share and present their ideas to support the development of the Secretary-General's New Agenda for Peace, organized by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA). During the session, the participants discussed, developed, and presented their bold and fresh thoughts and ideas on how they see the future of disarmament.

Ms. Soo Hyun Kim, UNODA’s #Youth4Disarmament lead, delivers remarks on ways
Ms. Soo Hyun Kim, UNODA’s #Youth4Disarmament lead, delivers remarks on ways "towards a nuclear-test-free future” with insights from and for the next generation at CTBT’s Science Diplomacy Symposium
Vienna

On 9 December 2022, Ms. Soo Hyun Kim, the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs' #Youth4Disarmament lead, participated in a panel discussion on ways "towards a nuclear-test-free future: insights from and for the next generation".

The panel formed part of the third Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) Science Diplomacy Symposium, bringing visionary thinkers from different backgrounds together to share their ideas for a more desirable future.

#YouthInAction for Disarmament Campaign 2022
#Youth4Disarmament launches the 2022 #YouthInAction for Disarmament Campaign
- Virtual

To mark the 3rd anniversary of UN resolution 74/64, the first on Youth, Disarmament and Non-Proliferation, the #Youth4Disarmament initiative has launched the 2022 edition of the #YouthInAction for Disarmament Campaign.  

The #Leaders4Tomorrow presented twenty-three projects to engage youth on topics related to disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control (D.N.A.) in a side event of the United Nations General Assembly.
#Leaders4Tomorrow present ideas to advance disarmament education as a solution to peace in First Committee Side Event
United Nations Headquarters

On 19 October 2022, the #Leaders4Tomorrow presented twenty-three projects to engage youth on topics related to disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control (D.N.A.) in a sideevent of the United Nations General Assembly. Ms. Soo Hyun Kim, #Youth4Disarmament lead with the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), moderated the event.

Winners of Pitching Peace Announced
Youth express passion for peace through their original music in First Committee Side-Event
Virtual

Inspired by the healing and uniting power of music, the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs launched the Pitching Peace Youth Music Challenge. Young people aged between 13-29 years old were invited to share their passion for peace by composing and recording their own musical entries.

#Leaders4Tomorrow exchange perspectives with the United Nations Disarmament Fellows
#Leaders4Tomorrow exchange perspectives with the United Nations Disarmament Fellows
United Nations Headquarters

On 20 October 2022, 22 of the #Leaders4Tomorrow gathered with the United Nations Disarmament Fellows to exchange perspectives on topics related to disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control.

During the in-person session, the two cohorts discussed ways to engage youth in disarmament, provide entry points into the disarmament field, and exchange perspectives on current challenges related to international peace and security.

Ms. Soo Hyun Kim, #Youth4Disarmament Lead, and Mr. Peter Kolarov, Disarmament Fellows Coordinator, facilitated the session.

Patrick Karekezi, UN Youth Champion for Disarmament, at the high-level plenary meeting to commemorate and promote the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons
“We can seize this opportunity”, says Patrick Karekezi, UN Youth Champion for Disarmament, at high-level plenary meeting to commemorate and promote the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons
United Nations Headquarters
On 26 September 2022, Mr. Patrick Karekezi, UN Youth Champion for Disarmament, delivered remarks during the high-level plenary meeting to commemorate and promote the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons (IDTENW).   Acknowledging the importance of the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, Mr. Patrick Karekezi stressed the need to seize the opportunity and mobilize action towards eliminating nuclear weapons. “I am here because I am certain – certain that humanity has the ability to reject fear of each other.”
275 young people took part in the #StepUp4Disarmament Youth Campaign on 29 August 2022 to commemorate the International Day against Nuclear Tests. Participants included members of the Permanent Mission of El Salvador to the United Nations (Right photo).
Young people around the world #StepUp4Disarmament to mark the International Day against Nuclear Tests
United Nations Headquarters
On 29 August 2022, 275 young people across the globe participated in the #StepUp4Disarmament Youth Campaign. Participants completed the distance of 8.29km to commemorate the International Day against Nuclear Tests and to raise awareness of the devastating consequences caused by nuclear testing. As part of this year’s campaign, a group of young participants attended an in-person event hosted by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs and its #Youth4Disarmament Initiative, to learn more about the impact of nuclear testing and the UN’s work to support the cause to ban nuclear tests.
Secretary-General meets with Youth involved in Disarmament
“Fight for disarmament” says UN Secretary-General in dialogue with youth leaders in Hiroshima
Hiroshima

On 6 August 2022, the seventy-seventh anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres met with youth leaders to hear their innovative ideas and perspectives for advancing nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.

Six young activists from Japan spoke with the Secretary-General about their experiences working in the field of disarmament, current obstacles for achieving a world free of nuclear weapons and the role of young people as the ultimate force for change.

Youth exchange with Setsuko Thurlow
#Youth4Disarmament to host Youth Exchange with Setsuko Thurlow
United Nations Headquarters

As we approach the 77th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the opportunities to hear first-hand testimony from the survivors - the Hibakusha - become fewer and fewer. With time marching on, it is imperative to engage and educate the next generation on the stories of the Hibakusha - to preserve their memories and to take on their goal of achieving a world free of nuclear weapons.

#StepUp4Disarmament Youth Campaign 2022
#Youth4Disarmament launch the #StepUp4Disarmament Youth Campaign 2022
Global

#StepUp4Disarmament is back!

Following the success of last year’s initiative, #Youth4Disarmament and its collaborating partners are calling on young people to #StepUp4Disarmament by either completing a distance of 8.29 kilometres or tracking 10.9k steps, an approximate equivalent, to raise awareness of the International Day against Nuclear Tests, on 29 August 2022, and its cause to ban nuclear tests. 

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the devastating health consequences of nuclear testing through an emphasis on physical activity, recognizing that sport plays a crucial role for many young people across the world.

World Youth Skills Day 2022 Spotlight Series
#Youth4Disarmament will highlight youth-led initiatives to mark World Youth Skills Day 2022
- Global

To commemorate World Youth Skills Day 2022, #Youth4Disarmament will highlight youth-led activities to engage, educate and empower young people in disarmament.

Young advocates, leaders and practitioners are invited to provide information on events and initiatives conducted to engage youth and what inspired them to act by filling out the dedicated webform.

Graphic for the Internship Opportunities at UNODA
Internship opportunities with UNODA
- Global

The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs has opened for applications a number of internship opportunities below.

For information on how to apply, go to the Application Process page. To read about recent changes to the application process, click here. More information is available on how to create your application and the UN Internship Programme.

UNODA staff members met with student from Falu Frigymnasium, a school based in Sweden, to discuss the work of the United Nations on disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control.
UNODA and #Youth4Disarmament meet with student from Falu Frigymnasium to discuss the work of the United Nations
UN Headquarters

On 11 May 2022, staff members from the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) met with students from Falu Frigymnasium, a school based in Sweden, to discuss the work of the United Nations and ways for young people to get involved in the disarmament field.

The briefing formed part of the group’s in-person study trip to the United Nations headquarters in New York.

Students met with Ms. Soo Hyun Kim, Acting Director of the UN Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific & #Youth4Disarmament Lead, Ms. Claudia Garcia Guiza, Political Affairs Officer, and Ms. Frida Thomassen, Associate Political Affairs Officer.

Pitching Peace Cover Photo
#Youth4Disarmament launches Pitching Peace Youth Music Challenge
- Global

On 24 May 2018, the United Nations Secretary-General published his Agenda for Disarmament, aiming to set our world on a path towards sustainable peace and security for all. To mark the fourth anniversary of Securing Our Common Future, the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs is launching the Pitching Peace Youth Music Challenge, inviting young people to express their passion for peace through music. 

, five representatives of the #Youth4Disarmament initiative participated in a panel discussion as part of the Critical Issues Forum 2022 Student Spring Conference
#Youth4Disarmament participates in Critical Issues Forum 2022 Spring Student Conference
Virtual Conference

On 30 April 2022, five representatives of the #Youth4Disarmament initiative participated in a panel discussion to highlight how the United Nations is engaging, educating, and empowering young people in building a better and safer future for all.

Naomi Ekpoki, UN Youth Champion for Disarmament, participated in the SDG 5 Thematic Session on “Generation Equality: Building Back Better with Young Women and Girls at the Centre”, as part of the 2022 ECOSOC Youth Forum.
Naomi Ekpoki, UN Youth Champion for Disarmament, participates in thematic session at the 2022 ECOSOC Youth Forum
ECOSOC Youth Forum

On 19 April 2022, UN Youth Champion for Disarmament, Naomi Ekpoki, participated in the SDG 5 Thematic Session on “Generation Equality: Building Back Better with Young Women and Girls at the Centre”.

The session formed part of the 2022 ECOSOC Youth Forum, which this year addressed the theme of “Building back better from COVID- 19 while advancing the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda.” As an annual initiative, the ECOSOC Youth Forum provides a key platform for young people to contribute to policy discussions at the United Nations through their collective ideas, solutions, and innovations.

Three of the UN Youth Champions for Disarmament gathered with Women in Cyber (WIC) Fellows to exchange perspectives on new and emerging technologies during a hybrid session.
UN Youth Champions for Disarmament exchange perspectives with Women in Cyber Fellows
 Hybrid Meeting at United Nations Headquarters
On 30 March 2022, three of the UN Youth Champions for Disarmament gathered with the Women in Cyber (WIC) Fellows to exchange perspectives on new and emerging technologies, with a focus on cyber issues. During the hybrid meeting, the UN Youth Champions discussed key topics relating to Disarmament and Cybersecurity with the WIC fellows, who have been selected from applicants from the global south including countries in Africa, Asia and the Pacific and Latin America and the Caribbean.
The High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu, provided the following comments on her Twitter page.
The High Representative for Disarmament Affairs notes “arguments that a nuclear Ukraine would be safer today are fallacies.”

The High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu, provided the following comments on her Twitter page.

Ukraine made the right decision in 1994 to completely denuclearize for its own & our collective security. Arguments that a nuclear Ukraine would be safer today are fallacies. Nuclear weapons do not make anyone safer. In fact, nuclear weapons pose an existential threat to all.

Graphic of the #Leaders4Tomorrow Workshop Series
#Youth4Disarmament opens call for applications to #Leaders4Tomorrow Workshop Series
- Virtual
The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs, with generous financial support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, invites inspiring young leaders, aged 18-29, from around the world to apply for a newly launched workshop series; “Engaging, Educating and Empowering #Leaders4Tomorrow on Disarmament, Non-Proliferation and Arms Control (D.N.A.) to enact change today.”
Jok is a member of the #Youth4Disarmament Initiative and the founder and director of the Promised Land Primary & Secondary school in Juba, South Sudan
Disarmament Today Podcast: An interview with Jok Abraham Thon and Gail Prensky Changing minds from "bullets to books

Ms. Soo Hyun Kim, a Political Affairs Officer leading Youth for Disarmament Initiative in the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) is joined by two special guests Jok Abraham Thon from South Sudan and Gail Prensky from Washington D.C. sharing their stories of making an impact in the world by changing minds from “bullets to books”.

This podcast is being released during the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign. This year’s theme is “Be the Change”, aiming to inspire people to make a difference in their communities.

The winners of the "What If - Spesterra" Youth Video Challenge were announced at a virtual, congratulatory event on 14 October 2021.
Winners of the “What If – Spesterra” Youth Video Challenge Announced
Congratulatory Event

The United Nations General Assembly declared 2021 the “International Year of Peace and Trust”. It is also the first year of the Decade of Action to usher in ambitious steps to deliver on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Against this backdrop, the Office for Disarmament Affairs is launching the “What if — Spesterra” Youth Video Challenge to stimulate young people’s interest and knowledge about the vital way disarmament contributes to a safer, more secure and sustainable world for all. The challenge was launched on World Arts Day, on 15 April 2021, and closed for submissions on International Youth Day, 12 August 2021.

Con el fin de celebrar el 2do aniversario de la resolución 74/64 de la Asamblea General de las Naciones Unidas, #Youth4Disarmament invita a los jóvenes alrededor del mundo a compartir sus historias en el marco de la Campaña #YouthInAction para el Desarme.
Campaña #YouthInAction para el Desarme
- Virtual

Con el fin de celebrar el 2do aniversario de la resolución 74/64 de la ONU , la primera resolución sobre la Juventud, el Desarme y la No Proliferación, la iniciativa #Youth4Disarmament ha lanzado la Campaña #YouthInAction para el Desarme con el apoyo de los siguientes socios colaboradores: la Misión Permanente de la República de Corea ante las Naciones Unidas, Reverse the TrendYouth Fusion, y la Red Internacional de Acción Contra las Armas Ligeras (IANSA).

#YouthInAction for Disarmament Campaign
#YouthInAction for Disarmament Campaign
- Virtual

To mark the 2nd anniversary of UN resolution 74/64, the first on Youth, Disarmament and Non-Proliferation, the #Youth4Disarmament initiative has launched the #YouthInAction for Disarmament Campaign with support from collaborating partners the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea to the United Nations, Reverse the Trend, Youth Fusion, and the International Action Network on Small Arms (IANSA).

Ms. Crystal Isidor, Pace University senior, spoke at the #Youth4Disarmament Initiative’s launch event for the UN Youth Champions for Disarmament programme in January 2020
#Youth4Disarmament discuss youth engagement in disarmament with Pace University
Virtual Seminar

On 22 September 2021, the #Youth4Disarmament Team discussed youth engagement in disarmament with the students of Dr. Matthew Bolton, Director of International Disarmament Institute of Pace University, during a virtual seminar.

Ms. Soo Hyun Kim, Political Affairs Officer, and Ms. Marykate Monaghan, Youth Outreach Consultant, spoke with undergraduate students about the approaches, activities and projects of the #Youth4Disarmament initiative.

Entrants of the “What If - Spesterra” Youth Video Challenge attended a workshop with filmmakers Kasha Slavner and Robert Frye for an intergenerational dialogue on filmmaking to mark the International Day of Peace
“What If - Spesterra” entrants attend workshop to facilitate intergenerational dialogue on filmmaking to commemorate the International Day of Peace
Virtual Workshop

On 21 September 2021, the #Youth4Disarmament initiative held a virtual workshop with entrants of the “What If - Spesterra” Youth Video Challenge to mark the International Day of Peace.

Youth around the world #StepUp4Disarmament to commemorate the International Day Against Nuclear Tests
Youth around the world #StepUp4Disarmament to commemorate the International Day Against Nuclear Tests
Global

On 29 August 2021, young people from around the world participated in the #StepUp4Disarmament Youth Campaign to commemorate the International Day Against Nuclear Tests and the 30th anniversary of the closure of the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site in Kazakhstan.

UN Youth Champions for Disarmament address the Conference on Disarmament for session on Youth and Disarmament.
UN Youth Champions for Disarmament address formal plenary of the Conference on Disarmament on International Youth Day
Virtual

On 12 August 2021, International Youth Day, UN Youth Champions for Disarmament delivered remarks to the formal plenary of the Conference on Disarmament during a dedicated session on Youth and Disarmament.

The dedicated session on youth and disarmament marks a significant milestone, inviting youth voices into the Conference on Disarmament’s discussions for the first time. The plenary meeting was a joint effort by Canada as the President of the Conference on Disarmament and its Member States to facilitate inclusive and meaningful participation of youth in inter-governmental processes.

#StepUp4Disarmament Logo
#StepUp4Disarmament Youth Campaign

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the closure of the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site on August 29, 1991. On 2 December 2009, the 64th session of the United Nations General Assembly declared 29 August the International Day against Nuclear Tests by unanimously adopting resolution 64/35.

Participants of the Youth Forum on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation developed recommendations to advance the disarmament agenda within 3 Working Groups, exploring the relationship between disarmament and (i) Sustainable Development Goals, (ii) New and Emerging Technologies, and (iii) gender.
Seoul Youth Declaration for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation adopted by participants of the Youth Forum on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation
- Virtual

On 30 June 2021, the participants of the Youth Forum on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation adopted the Seoul Youth Declaration for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation, containing their recommendations for Securing Our Common Future.

The UN Youth Champions for Disarmament attended a virtual ‘graduation’ ceremony with the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu, and Mr. Christoph Anton of the German Federal Foreign Office on 14 June 2021.
UN Youth Champions for Disarmament conclude online training with virtual ‘graduation’ ceremony
Virtual
The 10 UN Youth Champions for Disarmament attended a virtual ‘graduation’ ceremony with the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu, and Mr. Christoph Anton of the German Federal Foreign Office to mark the completion of their year-long online training. During the ‘graduation’ ceremony, the Youth Champions reflected on their experiences and presented their project proposals, developed with the intention to engage their communities on issues related to disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control.
Preparations for UNODA and ROK’s Youth Forum on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation begins with virtual orientation session.
Preparations for UNODA and ROK’s Youth Forum on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation begins with virtual orientation session
Virtual
On 9 June 2021, 26 young leaders and advocates from around the world attended the orientation session of the Youth Forum on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation, organised by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs, the Office’s #Youth4Disarmament initiative and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea. The Youth Forum, taking place on 29-30 June 2021, provides a unique platform for youth to share their perspectives and visions in the promotion of the UN disarmament and nonproliferation agenda, engaging young people in pressing and significant discussions occurring within the field.
UNODA and ROK open call for applications to Youth Forum on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation
UNODA and ROK open call for applications to Youth Forum on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation
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The United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea are looking for motivated and energetic youth aged 18-29 from diverse backgrounds to share their perspectives and visions in the promotion of the UN disarmament and nonproliferation agenda.
Dilan Ezgi Koç delivered remarks at the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum
Dilan Ezgi Koç, UN Youth Champion for Disarmament, delivers remarks at the  ECOSOC Youth Forum

On 8 April 2021, UN Youth Champion for Disarmament Dilan Ezgi Koç delivered remarks at the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum.

The ECOSOC Youth Forum forms a unique platform for young people, Member States and partners to discuss the issues most important to young people today and for youth to share their vision and actions on implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. 

Banner for the Call for Volunteers to translate the "What if - Spesterra" Youth Video Challenge
#Youth4Disarmament's call for volunteers to help translate the "What If - Spesterra" Youth Video Challenge
The #Youth4Disarmament initiative is looking for volunteers to help provide translations for the “What if - Spesterra” Youth Video Challenge! We welcome translations into any language, and anyone aged 13 and above can answer the call: youth, adults, everyone.
Graphic on the Sustainable Development Goals, youth and the United Nations
How disarmament and arms control contribute to sustainable development

Tuesday, March 23rd, will mark the 1-year anniversary of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ appeal for a global ceasefire. This presents a moment to take stock of where we are and what is needed to promote peace, security and development and a better world for all.

Open Minds Project Winter 2020
The winter edition of our Open Minds Project is now available!

The newsletter highlights a collection of materials produced by the #Youth4Disarmament initiative and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs over the past few months to promote meaningful and inclusive participation and empowerment of youth on disarmament and non-proliferation issues. This includes spotlight stories produced by our #Youth4Disarmament members, the latest updates from our Youth Champions for Disarmament and information on the events that have taken place over the fall and winter period.

Such resources remind us that extraordinary things are happening. The Open Minds Project helps you find them.

Disarmament Today Podcast: Youth Edition
Disarmament Today Podcast: Youth leaders discuss how young people can act as "ultimate forces for change" in disarmament

In the latest UNODA Disarmament Today podcast, we are celebrating and commemorating a range of milestones that have both advanced the role of young people in disarmament, and opened opportunities for the youth to make meaningful contributions within the field.

Ms. Marykate Monaghan, an intern with the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), talks to five youth leaders from a range of different projects and initiatives, working with other young people to act as “the ultimate force for change.” They discuss the steps that they are taking to contribute to disarmament around the globe, and tips, suggestions, and resources for interested listeners to get involved themselves.

Youth4Disarmament, 2020 Billion Acts of Peace Award Winner, Best Coalition Building Project
#Youth4Disarmament awarded Billion Acts of Peace Award for Best Coalition Building Project 2020
New York
The finalists of a Billion Acts of Peace Awards. The #Youth4Disarmament initiative received a Billion Acts of Peace Award for Best Coalition Building Project of 2020 during the Billion Acts of Peace Virtual Award Ceremony.
Join us to Celebrate the 2020 Billion Acts of Peace Award Winners
Join #Youth4Disarmament at the Billion Acts of Peace Award Ceremony

The #Youth4Disarmament Initiative has been nominated as one of twelve semi-finalists for a 2020 Billion Acts of Peace Award from more than 8 Million Acts of Peace worldwide for its efforts to engage, educate and empower young people to address international security challenges.

Flyer for the Youth Special Session: New Technologies and their Impact on the Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Regime, being held on the 2nd December 2020 at 7am East Standard Time
Youth Special Session: New Technologies and their Impact on the Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Regime
New York
Next week, the 19th annual Republic of Korea-United Nations Joint Conference on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Issues is being held with the theme of ‘New Technologies’. This year, a Youth Special Session pre-event is being held on Wednesday, 2 December at 7am EST/1pm CET/9pm KST where five youth representatives will share their ideas and engage in a Q&A discussion. This is held as a response to the calls from the UN Secretary-General in his Agenda for Disarmament, UNGA res 74/64 on Youth, Disarmament & Non-Proliferation and UNSCR 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) for inclusive and meaningful youth participation. 
We're seeking interns!
Temporary Job Openings for Interns
New York

The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs has advertised the internship opportunities below for New York, Geneva and Vienna. 

For information on how to apply, go to the Application Process page. To read about recent changes to the application process, click here.

BIOSECURITY DIPLOMACY WORKSHOP FOR YOUNG SCIENTISTS FROM THE GLOBAL SOUTH 2nd Edition, 2020 – 2021 - Call for applications now open
Biosecurity Diplomacy Workshop for Young Scientists from the Global South, 2nd Edition, 2020 – 2021
Geneva

The Implementation Support Unit (ISU) of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) are delighted to open the call for applications to the 2020 – 2021 Biosecurity Diplomacy Workshop for Young Scientists from the Global South. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this 2nd Edition will mainly be held virtually between end November 2020 and mid-2021.

UN #75Words4Disarmament Winners
#75Words4Disarmament Youth Challenge Winners
New York

Disarmament is at the heart of the collective security system set out in the United Nations Charter, with its goal to “save succeeding generations from the scourge of war”.  In commemoration of the seventy-fifth anniversaries of the establishment of the United Nations and the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the Office for Disarmament Affairs held the “75 Words for Disarmament Youth Challenge”, which was launched on 12 August, International Youth Day, and was closed on 26 September, the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons. The challenge was open to young people between the ages of 13 and 29, with three age groups:  13 to 18 years (middle and high school), 19 to 24 years (college and graduate school) and 25 to 29 years (early career professionals).

Participants at the #Youth4Disarmament event “74 Years of Nuclear Disarmament and the Contribution of Youth beyond 2020” (New York, 24 January 2020)
#Youth4Disarmament featured in UN Secretary-General's Annual Report

Today, the #Youth4Disarmament Initiative was featured in the UN Secretary-Generals Annual Report on the Work of the Organisation 2020! The report referred to the initiatives work in empowering young people with the knowledge, skills and opportunities to act as a force for change. 

Learn More

Announcing the website launch of the Youth4Disarmament Initiative. Please take a peek! www.youth4disarmament.org
Dedicated Digital Platform for Youth Engagement on Disarmament Now Live
New York

Disarmament is at the heart of the collective security system set out in the Charter of the United Nations, with its goal to “save succeeding generations from the scourge of war”.

75 Words for Disarmament Challenge
Office for Disarmament Affairs Launches United Nations ‘75 Words for Disarmament Youth Challenge’
New York

Disarmament is at the heart of the collective security system set out in the United Nations Charter, with its goal to “save succeeding generations from the scourge of war”.  In commemoration of the seventy-fifth anniversaries of the establishment of the United Nations and the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the Office for Disarmament Affairs is launching the “75 Words for Disarmament Youth Challenge”.  

Screenshot of virtual meeting participants
UN Youth Champions for Disarmament experience at The Tenth NPT Review Conference: Youth and the NPT
Virtual

Today, we served as strong witnesses of the amazing work UNODA is doing to engage more youth in disarmament activities. We were really honoured to have been specially recognised and mentioned as the first group of 10 UN Youth Champions for Disarmament by the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu as she commenced her opening speech at the high level event “The Tenth NPT Review Conference: Youth and the NPT”. This gesture was definitely very encouraging for the entire group to receive such a special welcome at this prestigious event, it also shows that youth are making headway in being part of global decision making with regards to disarmament; this for us is an achievement for the youthful population. 

Since its founding, the United Nations has given the highest priority to reducing and eventually eliminating weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear, biological and chemical weapons, as well as controlling small arms and light weapons. With the rapid development of information and communications technology, the emergence of new concepts of security and threat, and the largest generation of young people in history, the need for education in disarmament and non-proliferation has never been greater.

UNHQ, NY

On 28 February 2020, scholars, disarmament experts, educators, young students and human rights activists gathered at the United Nations in New York to discuss  one central question: “What can we do to make wars come to an end?” This year’s Committee on Teaching About the United Nations (CTAUN) Conference, co-sponsored by the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea to the United Nations, was entitled “WarNoMore”, honouring the 75th anniversary of the United Nations and its purpose as outlined in the Charter: “We the Peoples of the United Nations determined to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war.”

Education is a crucial element of the global disarmament process, and that is why it is important for the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) to support the next generation of leaders in this field through the UN’s internship programme. This is in line with the 2002 UN Study on Disarmament and Non-proliferation Education (A/57/124) which identified the objective to impart knowledge and skills to individuals to empower them to make their contribution, as national and world citizens, to the achievement of concrete disarmament and non-proliferation measures and the ultimate goal of general and complete disarmament under effective international control.

UNHQ

The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (ODA) engaged approximately seventy young people in a wide-ranging discussion on youth action for disarmament to mark the 74th anniversary of the first UN General Assembly resolution, which established the goal of eliminating nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction. The event was organized with the support from the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea to the United Nations.

UNHQ

How can disarmament contribute to saving lives? What are innovative solutions to break the cycle of armed violence? How does disarmament contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals?

These questions, and many more, were addressed during the #Youth4Disarmament event that took place at UN Headquarters on 26 November. Youth advocates engaged with officials from the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and civil society representatives on a range of disarmament related-topics, with a focus on the impact of illicit small arms and light weapons (SALW) and the proliferation of conventional weapons.

UNHQ, onboard Peace Boat

The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and the international NGO Peace Boat co-organized an event on Friday 11 October, coinciding with the UN General Assembly First Committee on Disarmament and International Security. Approximately 75 young people between the ages of 18 and 30 participated in the full-day programme, called “Youth Champions for Securing our Common Future”.

The event was part of UNODA’s “#Youth4Disarmament” initiative, aimed at connecting young people with experts to learn about today’s international security challenges, the work of the United Nations, and how they can become involved. 

- Pokhara, Nepal

UNRCPD sponsored three International Youth Delegates from Myanmar, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka and two National Youth Delegates from Nepal for the 14th International Youth Media Summit, held this year in Pokhara, Nepal. The delegates worked with other international delegates to produce video public service announcements (PSAs) on themes such as discrimination, the environment, health, poverty, violence, women’s rights and youth empowerment showcasing the power of youth educating youth.

- Geneva

On 3-4 August, the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs convened the Global South in Biosecurity Diplomacy workshop in Vevey, Switzerland. Twenty young scientists from the global south were selected in a competitive process. The workshop, that included expert speakers and facilitators, aimed at fostering Global South networks and cooperation in the fields of biosafety and biosecurity, increasing awareness about the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), and exposing young scientists to multilateral disarmament negotiations.

UNHQ, NY

The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) launched its youth outreach initiative on 16 August.  The first activity organized under this initiative brought together young people from across the New York area to UN Headquarters to join an expert-led discussion on the implications of artificial intelligence for international peace and security. The event was also organized in celebration of International Youth Day (12 August).

Kathamandu, Pokhara, Nepal

The United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific (UNRCPD) partnered with the International Youth Media Summit (IYMS) for the launch of its 14th edition in Pokhara, Nepal.

- UNHQ, NY

UNODA created an exhibit on military expenditure and the sustainable development goals which UNODA’s youth (an intern) presented at the ECOSOC Youth Forum.

UNODA, NY

UNODA hosted a discussion with Peace Boat U.S. on the issue of nuclear disarmament.

UNODA, NY

ODA held a “knowledge exchange” bringing together young professionals from its offices in New York, Geneva, and UNODA’s three Regional Centres for Peace and Disarmament (in Africa, Asia, and Latin America and the Caribbean) to share inspiring ideas for future projects. 

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