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

New online platform for peacebuilders
Armed violence and development

The Peace Portal, an online platform for peacebuilding organisations, was launched today by the Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict (GPPAC) Foundation.

UK campaigners call on politicians for commitment to the Arms Trade Treaty
International trade controls

The UK section of Amnesty International is calling on leaders of the major political parties in the UK to commit to supporting a strong and effective Arms Trade Treaty.

Women victims of firearms
Women, gender and guns

“Too many victims of gun violence are women”, according to an article by Heidi Yewman  published in Ms Magazine this week. She says, “In 2008, 7,451 women were treated in emergency rooms across America for gunshot wounds, 66 percent of which were assault-related.

Guinea: Youth celebrate New Year with event to prevent small arms proliferation
Armed violence and development, Regional Cooperation

In the northern town of Maali in Guinea, New Year was celebrated with an event to raise awareness among young people about HIV/AIDS and the proliferation of small arms. More than 1000 people attended the event, which was covered in the national media.

GRIP report on EU strategy on small arms proliferation
International trade controls

The 2005 EU Strategy against small arms proliferation is critically analysed in a new report from the Group for Research and Information on Peace and Security (GRIP).

Latest resources

Guns are the weapons most widely used to kill women
National gun laws, Women, gender and guns

Firearms were the weapons most widely used to kill women in 44 countries around the world, said the Third International Report on Partner Violence against Women.

Website on women & peace
Women, gender and guns

PeaceWomen launched their new upgraded website to access information and exchange resources on women, peace and security.

Dangerous Depots
Weapons collection and destruction

Article from the US State Department with a list of examples of explosions at ammunition depots. Written in 2010.

IANSA Women’s Network bulletin
Women, gender and guns

The latest bulletin of the IANSA Women’s Network is now available.

Oslo Commitments on Armed Violence & Development (2010)
Armed violence and development

A number of countries now support the 2010 Oslo Commitments, seeking to reduce armed violence as part of achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).