The African Union’s Peace and Security Council will convene tomorrow to discuss a unified strategy for tackling the continent’s widespread issue of illegal small arms and light weapons (SALW).
The draft Common African Position on the upcoming UN Program of Action review conference aims to establish a coordinated approach for member states.
Widespread availability of SALWs fuels conflicts and hinders peacebuilding efforts across Africa. The document emphasizes the need for robust national action plans and standardized continental frameworks to address the fragmented responses observed in some regions.
A key proposal involves creating a dedicated international body to monitor and report on illicit arms trafficking. This body would identify actors involved in the trade and potentially recommend sanctions through the UN Security Council.
Strengthening national capacities to manage stockpiles and implement the UN’s arms tracing instrument are also crucial aspects of the proposed strategy.
The meeting’s expected outcome is a press statement or communique endorsing the Common African Position with possible amendments. The council may also call for increased resources to support member states and bolster regional cooperation in combating the illicit arms trade.
The document acknowledges the growing threat posed by new 3D-printing technologies for weapons manufacturing. It supports the UN call for a study on this issue, taking into account the needs of developing nations.
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