Arms control aims to limit weapons and the risks they create. Disarmament goes further by reducing or eliminating weapons. Agreements may address particular weapons, their production, transfers or testing. These efforts connect with protecting civilians and reducing the risk of conflict.
Why it matters
An agreement is only useful if it can be put into practice. Countries need to share information and check that rules are followed. They also need to act when rules are broken. The UN Office for Disarmament Affairs explains this work, while the Arms Trade Treaty addresses international trade in conventional arms.
Take action
Start by learning how a specific weapon or trade decision affects communities. Compare reliable sources. A proposal is not the same as a signed agreement. Signing also does not prove that rules are being followed. Our peace and conflict page explores the wider work needed to prevent violence and support lasting security.
Prolific irony - For 8 years, the finger on the button that could end the world belonged to a president who couldn't pronounce the word "nuclear.