Preventing diversion of small arms and light weapons

Issues and priorities for strengthened controls

The diversion of authorised small arms and light weapons (SALW) transfers or holdings to unauthorised users or uses is a major contributing factor to the massive human suffering and insecurity associated with SALW proliferation and misuse across the world.

For at least a decade, virtually all states have not only accepted this but also committed themselves to act in order to prevent and reduce such diversion.  This includes co-operative measures to combat diversion through agreements conducted at international level.  However, it is clear after several years of implementation of such agreements that much more needs to be done. 

This report examines issues and priorities for improving controls and co-operation to prevent and reduce diversion of authorised official or civilian SALW transfers and holdings to unauthorised users or uses.  It calls on the international community to launch (or re-launch) concerted initiatives and measures to strengthen their systems for preventing and reducing diversion of all types of SALW (including ammunition, parts and components) from authorised transfers or holdings.  It put forwards the actions that are needed at the national, international and regional levels.