UN OFFICE STARTS NEW SEASON OF DISARMAMENT EDUCATION FOR YOUNG DIPLOMATS

UN OFFICE STARTS NEW SEASON OF DISARMAMENT EDUCATION FOR YOUNG DIPLOMATS New York, Aug 25 2008 12:10PM Young diplomats from 25 United Nations Member States today <"http://www.unog.ch/80256EDD006B9C2E/(httpNewsByYear_en)/7B6A5208BA4BC3E3C12574B000420E1B?OpenDocument">embarked on a nine-week programme studying disarmament issues in Geneva on the 30th anniversary of the programme's existence.

The UN Programme of Fellowships on Disarmament was launched by the General Assembly in 1978 with the aim of promoting expertise in more Member States, particularly in developing countries.

Many of the 759 public officials from 159 States who have graduated from the programme – set up by the UN Office of Disarmament – are now in positions of responsibility in the field of disarmament in their own governments.

This year's participants will observe sessions of the Conference on Disarmament and participate in a study visit organized by the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland.

The programme also includes lectures by senior representatives of States involved in the Conference on Disarmament, representatives in the First Committee – the General Assembly subcommittee dealing with disarmament and international security – as well as staff members of the Office of Disarmament Affairs and experts from the academic community.

The programme will conclude at UN Headquarters on 24 October with the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Sergio Duarte, awarding certificates to successful participants.
2008-08-25 00:00:00.000

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