TMF Guides · Model UN

DISEC in Model UN

DISEC, the General Assembly's First Committee, handles disarmament and international security. It is large, procedurally forgiving and technically demanding — which makes it the best serious committee for a first conference.

Mandate

DISEC addresses global security threats and disarmament questions, producing recommendations to the General Assembly. Like all GA committees, its output is non-binding.

It cannot take enforcement action, which means clauses should focus on treaty frameworks, verification regimes, transparency mechanisms and capacity building.

Recurring agendas

Emerging technology dominates modern DISEC agendas, alongside the enduring nuclear questions.

  • Lethal autonomous weapons systems.
  • Cybersecurity and attacks on critical infrastructure.
  • Nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament verification.
  • Small arms and light weapons trafficking.
  • Militarisation of outer space.

Strategy

DISEC rewards technical literacy. A delegate who understands what verification actually requires — inspection regimes, sensor networks, data-sharing protocols — writes clauses nobody can amend away.

Know the treaty landscape: NPT, CTBT, CCW, ATT and your country's status under each.

Frequently asked questions

What does DISEC stand for?

The Disarmament and International Security Committee — the First Committee of the UN General Assembly.

Is DISEC good for beginners?

Yes. It is large, procedurally standard, and gives first-time delegates room to build confidence.

Can DISEC pass binding resolutions?

No. General Assembly committee resolutions are recommendations, not binding obligations.

Put it into practice

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