The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is an autonomous institution that belongs to the system of the United Nations dedicated to research on disarmament, weapons control and international security. It was established by the General Assembly in 1980, in an international context marked by tensions of the arms race and continuous concern about nuclear weapons and other threats to global stability. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, UNIDIR collaborates with United Nations Member States, international organisations, academics and security experts to develop investigations, analysis and provide policy recommendations to strengthen multilateral cooperation, contribute to maintaining peace and international security. For decades, the institute has worked in coordination with several entities and programs of the United Nations, including the General Assembly and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), promoting international dialogue and the search for cooperative solutions regarding  challenges in matters of security and disarmament. 

With the purpose of promoting peace and international security through investigations, analysis and multilateral cooperation in matters of disarmament and weapon control, the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research has the following faculties:

• Design and present strategies, action plans and recommendations to address threats relating to disarmament, weapon flow, and international security; 

• Convene and coordinate discussions, working groups and emergency consultations among relevant stakeholders to prevent, manage or mitigate emergency situations;

• Issue technical assessments, specialist reports and strategic advice to guide Member States’ decision-making in the face of emerging risks and conflicts;

• Propose and promote mechanisms for cooperation, monitoring and capacity-building aimed at reducing violence and promoting international order;

• Identify emerging threads and formulate preventive measures, regulations or responses in light of risks arising from new technology, advanced weapons systems and other challenges to global security.