Control of illicit trade of light weapons in conflict zones

The trafficking of small arms is an emerging danger to international peace and security, prolonging civil wars and organized crime within conflict regions. This critical challenge not only fuels violence but also actively works against the stability and sustainable development efforts on a global scale. The illegal trade of small arms, from handguns to light machine guns, frequently changes hands and is easily smuggled across borders. Non-state and criminal groups often receive arms easily and without restriction. The international community requires enhanced collaboration and creative policy designs to control and track the small arms trade. We encourage delegates to defend peace and the rule of law, over conflict and crime, by addressing issues of border control, arms tracing, and international cooperation, which we can no longer afford to ignore.