Work areas

The problem of small arms proliferation is multidimensional– that is why such a broad array of organisations around the world are so concerned about it. On this page you will find the latest news and resources on some of the hot topics for groups working against small arms and light weapons.

Latest news

UN Human Rights Council: Human rights impact of UK defence and security policies
Women, gender and guns

On 23 May 2012, the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF) held an event at the Human Rights Council which focused on the UK Universal Periodic Review. The event 'Upholding Human Rights: The Link Between Security and Social Economic Rights' highlighted UK policies on defence, security, and the arms trade. Moderated byWILPF Secretary-General Madeleine Rees, panelists included Rebecca Johnson, of the Acronym Institute; Ceri Goddard, of the Fawcett Institute; and Rebecca Gerome of the IANSA Women’s Network.

Americas: Conference focuses on implementation of CIFTA
Marking and tracing

On 14-15 May 2012, the Organisation of American States (OAS) hosted the Third Conference on the Inter-American Convention against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives and Other Related Materials (CIFTA). CIFTA promotes and facilitates the cooperation and exchange of information, training and experiences between OAS Member States. The focus of the conference was the implementation of CIFTA and how to promote the effective use of firearms marking and tracing in the Americas.

Bahamas: UNODA provides small arms destruction equipment
Regional Cooperation, UN Small Arms Process, Weapons collection and destruction

In May 2012, as part of the 'Firearms Destruction and Stockpile Management Assistance Package for Caribbean States,' the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs, through its Regional Centre for Peace, Disarmament and Development in Latin America and the Caribbean, provided a set of hydraulic shears to the Bahamas. This provides a permanent and sustainable capacity to destroy surplus, obsolete and confiscated small arms.

Ethiopia: IANSA and UNREC hold Africa Regional Consultation on the ATT
International trade controls

On 21-22 May 2012, IANSA together with the United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Africa (UNREC) organised a conference on the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) to prepare for the ATT Diplomatic Conference in July 2012.

Mexico approves new law for the rights of victims of violence
Survivors

On 30 April 2012, the Mexican Lower House of Congress approved a law for the rights of victims of violence, including gun violence. Approved by the Senate, the new law will establish a national registry of victims, and victims and their families will be entitled to compensation of up to US $70,000.00, as well as legal and medical support.

Latest resources

MGE 2011 - Summary Report: Plenary Session: Morning - 12 May 2011
Marking and tracing, UN Small Arms Process

A summary report of the main points of the morning session on Thursday 12 May at the Open-Ended Meeting of Governmental Experts, 9-13 May 2011.

MGE 2011 - Summary Report: Plenary Session: Afternoon - 11 May 2011
Marking and tracing, UN Small Arms Process

A summary report of the main points of the afternoon session on Wednesday 11 May at the Open-Ended Meeting of Governmental Experts, 9-13 May 2011.

MGE 2011 - Side event - Implementing firearm marking and record-keeping in Southern Africa
Marking and tracing, UN Small Arms Process

A summary report of the side event 'Implementing firearm marking and record-keeping in Southern Africa: a partnership between police, civil society and the private sector”' held on 11 May 2011.

MGE 2011 - Summary Report: Plenary Session: Morning - 11 May 2011
Marking and tracing, UN Small Arms Process

A summary report of the main points of the morning session on Wednesday 11 May at the Open-Ended Meeting of Governmental Experts, 9-13 May 2011.

MGE 2011 - Side event - Tracing conflict ammunition: viability and challenges
Marking and tracing, UN Small Arms Process

A summary report of the side event 'Tracing conflict ammunition: viability and challenges' held on 11 May 2011.