FIRST INDIAN APPOINTED TO CHAIR THE ABDM

News: Senior Indian diplomat DB Venkatesh Varma has been nominated by the UN Secretary General to chair the Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters (ABDM) for the 2026–27 term.

ABDM

• It was established in 1978 following the 10th Special Session of the UN General Assembly.
• It functions as an expert advisory body to the UN Secretary-General on issues related to arms limitation and disarmament.

Composition:

• The ABDM consists of 15 members, selected by the Secretary-General from all regions of the world based on their expertise in disarmament and international security.
• The Director of United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) serves as an ex officio member
• The chairpersonship rotates annually by region or discussion theme.

Working & Sessions:

• The ABDM meets twice a year, alternating between New York and Geneva.
• Its agenda is framed around requests from the Secretary-General as well as the Board’s own recommendations.

Functions:

• The Board advises the Secretary-General on arms control and disarmament policies, supports research and studies within the UN system
• Acts as the Board of Trustees of UNIDIR, and guides the UN Disarmament Information Programme, contributing to global peace and security through expert-led cooperation.