Disarmament is defined as comprehensive action, undertaken by actors at the international, regional, national and/or local level, with the goal of reducing nuclear, chemical and biological weapons as well as small arms and light weapons (SALW), land mines and the global arms trade. This complex topic is typically separated into several categories, based on the type of weapon being discussed.

Small arms and light weapons are the category of weapons most typically used and traded in the existing conflicts around the world. Women are disproportionately affected by these weapons in conflict and post-conflict contexts. In addition, if resources continue to be spent on weapons the inevitable result is that governments are not spending money on other programs such as education or ending violence against women. It is essential that the women, peace and security agenda be linked with disarmament if building sustainable peace is to be achieved.