“The proliferation, diversion and misuse of small arms and light-weight weapons proceed to undermine peace, safety and sustainable growth all over the world – fuelling battle and armed violence and inflicting devastating human prices”, stated António Guterres in a press release launched by his Spokesperson.
The UN chief congratulated Member States on efficiently concluding the Fourth Evaluation Convention, welcoming the organising of an open-ended technical professional group to deal with developments in small arms and light-weight weapons manufacturing, know-how and design.
Strengthening cooperation
He additionally recognised the commitments States have made to strengthen worldwide cooperation and help and to implement gender-responsive insurance policies.
Mr. Guterres “strongly believes that the progress made…will assist strengthen our collective and nationwide efforts to fight illicit small arms and light-weight weapons till the subsequent evaluate convention in 2030”, the assertion continued.
The UN chief added that he hoped the commitments concerning small arms would inform discussions on the Summit of the Future in September “to seek out forward-looking and action-oriented options for a extra peaceable future.”
Earlier within the month in a press release to delegates Mr. Guterres famous that the convention was occurring at a “troublesome and harmful second for humanity” with new conflicts putting tens of millions of individuals within the line of fireside, the place gentle weapons play a serious position.
Main reason for violent demise
Small arms are the main reason for violent deaths and are the weapon of alternative in almost half of all international homicides, in keeping with UN figures.
The illicit unfold of sunshine weapons is accelerating resulting from new developments within the manufacturing, know-how, and design of small arms – together with 3D printing.
The Secretary-Basic’s New Agenda for Peace coverage temporary recognises the significance of small arms management in stopping battle and constructing peace. It makes suggestions to strengthen regional, nationwide, and international management efforts on each the provision and demand facet.
