The Functions and Activities of the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency

GAO discussed the results of its inquiry into the ability of the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency (ACDA) to carry out its major responsibilities. At a time when arms control issues are growing in number and complexity, the overall staffing level of ACDA has fallen to its lowest point in several years. Added to the staffing and leadership issues are the questions raised by certain recent management actions. The formulation of the Nation's arms control policies is the single most important function of ACDA. ACDA also has responsibility for preparing and managing participation in international negotiations in the arms control and disarmament field under the direction of the Secretary of State. Although ACDA is involved in developing arms control policy as a member of more than 20 interagency policymaking bodies, it heads none of them. The agency is charged with conducting, supporting, and coordinating research for arms control and disarmament. Most external research projects are in the verification area. ACDA is responsible for providing executive branch policymakers and Congress with reports on compliance with particular treaties and information on the verifiability of proposed treaties. GAO also focused on certain management issues and actions which it believes should be explored with ACDA officials. These involve: (1) the lack of internal audits; (2) numerous and sometimes contradictory reorganizations within a very short timeframe; and (3) reduction of ACDA computer support.