Economic Aspects Of Disarmament

The Disarmament Study Series highlights United Nations General Assembly studies in the field of disarmament undertaken by groups of governmental experts. Pursuant of resolution 35/141 of 12 December 1980, this report analyzes the economic and social consequences of the arms race and its extremely harmful effects on world peace and security. It points out that the forces driving the arms race, the purposes it serves, and the various forms of its manifestation, have made it a phenomenon adversely affecting global socio-economic options, because its very continuation presupposes conflict and reinforces confrontation.

This report is in response to mandates of the General Assembly on the economic and social consequences of the arms race. It discusses the dynamics and resources of the arms race, military outlays and socio-economic development and international consequences of the arms race. The analysis reveals a continuity of negative effects but a greater degree of change since its previous reports.