The UN at 80: Disarmament, Nuclear Non-proliferation and Women, Peace and Security Agenda

Marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, this event will take a closer look at the past, present, and future of multilateral disarmament, nuclear non-proliferation, and the Women, Peace and Security agenda at a time of global uncertainty. Drawing on her personal and professional experience, Rebecca Jovin, Chief of the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs in Vienna, reflects on what disarmament means in practice within the UN system, exploring its history, key achievements, and ongoing humanitarian and security goals. She also discusses some of today's most pressing challenges, from nuclear risk and the erosion of international norms to the impact of conventional weapons on civilians, rising military spending, and the implications of emerging technologies such as autonomy. Lastly, the conversation highlighted why the Women, Peace and Security agenda remains so relevant, before turning to the importance of disarmament education, civic engagement, and practical pathways for young people interested in contributing to this vital field.The event was moderated by Patrick Labuda, Assistant Professor at the Central European University in Vienna. This Vienna Conversation Series event was organized in cooperation with Central European University.