1st General Assembly
Disarmament & International Security
Topic: Questioning the threat to international security posed by cyber attacks
Topic Brief
Cyber-warfare presents an unprecedented paradigm and threat to
international peace and security. Cyber-warfare attacks on military
infrastructure, government, communications systems, and financial
markets pose a rapidly growing decisive weapon of choice in present
and future conflicts between states. Hostile governments potentially
have the capability to hide behind rapidly advancing technology to
launch attacks undetected. And unlike conventional and nuclear arms,
there are no agreed international controls on the use of cyber
weapons. Further to this, cyber-warfare re-ignites questions of
morality and freedom of access to information which have traditionally
jaded the proliferation of global information communication
technology. Now, ineffective multi-lateral answers to these questions
present very real human consequences.
Your Background Paper is available HERE.
What is the First General Assembly?
The 1st General Assembly of the United Nations (UN) is a subsidiary committee of the UN General Assembly that deals with issues of disarmament and international security not already covered by the Security Council. The Assembly is a space for States to discuss positions and to forge resolutions on issues such as minimising weapons spending, maximising global security (through non-proliferating methods), and reducing arms trade, production, and stockpiles.
In reality, all member States of the United Nations can represent themselves in the First General Assembly. However, for the purposes of this Conference, representation shall be limited to 40 States.
Your Director