Third Biennial Meeting of States to Consider the Implementation of the UN Programme of Action
Saferworld position paper
Summary
The UN Programme of Action (PoA) is the only global small arms and light weapons (SALW) agreement. It represents a global consensus on the need to address the illicit trade in SALW in all its aspects.
However, since its agreement in 2001, progress in taking practical action has been slower than desired.
In July 2008, the third Biennial Meeting of States (BMS) provides a critical opportunity to re-invigorate the PoA process.
Saferworld believes that although the BMS is not formally a decision-making forum, there are a number of important outcomes that the BMS should work towards, which can make a concrete contribution to improving the lives of those affected by the proliferation of SALW. This briefing outlines these alongside PoA issues for future discussion.
