The issue is under scrutiny as delegates gather at UN Headquarters this week to address the global spread of illicit firearms, weapons that continue to fuel violence in communities long after wars end.
At the center of the discussions are emerging technologies that experts say could make these illegal weapons easier to manufacture and harder to trace.
“Wars end, but unfortunately, the weapons used in that particular conflict would not (then) be under full control.“said the UN’s top disarmament official, Izumi Nakamitsu. UN News.
“They continue to circulate. Sometimes they are hidden. They are brought across borders.”
‘Ghost guns’ and 3D firearms
One of the fastest growing concerns has to do with so-called Ghost Guns: Firearms assembled from parts or kits and lacking serial numbers. – which are almost impossible for authorities to track.
Advances in 3D printing technology has created additional challenges by allowing components (and in some cases entire, fully functioning firearms) to be produced outside of traditional manufacturing and regulatory systems.
The increasing availability and affordability of such technology has raised concerns among governments that illicit firearms may become easier to manufacture and more difficult to regulate.
“Those weapons or gun parts, if they are disassembled and then trafficked, are more difficult to trace,” Nakamitsu said.
What are small arms and light weapons?
small arms – such as pistols, revolvers and assault rifles – can be carried and operated by a single person. light weapons They include systems such as grenade launchers, machine guns, and portable anti-aircraft or anti-tank weapons, which can be operated by a small crew.
Because they are relatively inexpensive, durable, and easy to use, these weapons can remain in circulation for decades.
Ammunition is also a key part of the challenge. Even when weapons are already circulating illicitly, continued access to ammunition can prolong their use in conflict, crime and terrorism.
When wars end, weapons remain
A frequently cited example en Libya, where weapons looted or diverted during and after the 2011 conflict that ended Muammar Gadaffi’s rule subsequently turned up across the Sahel region.including Niger, Burkina Faso and Nigeria.
Some were later found in the hands of extremist groups, illustrating how weapons from one conflict can destabilize neighboring countries years later.
“The end of the conflict does not mean the end of the circulation of these weapons… they remain and continue to harm people,” Ms Nakamitsu said.
Firearms confiscated by authorities during border controls. (archive)
From crime to conflict
The impact varies by region, but is widespread.
In Latin America and the Caribbean, illicit firearms are closely linked to organized crime and some of the highest homicide rates in the world.. According to UN estimates, firearms account for 70 to 80 percent of violent deaths in some parts of the region.
In parts of sub-Saharan Africa, small arms proliferation may undermine peacebuilding efforts long after the fighting subsides. Weapons retained by armed groups, militias or communities for self-protection can contribute to renewed violence and instability.
Beyond security concerns
The consequences also extend far beyond conflicts.
Illicit weapons linked to human rights abusesterrorism and sexual and gender violence.
“It’s not just a security issue. It’s also about peacebuilding. It’s about human rights. It’s also about development,” Ms. Nakamitsu said.
The UN response
Recognizing the dangers posed by small arms and light weapons, United Nations Member States adopted a program of action in 2001, committing to strengthen national legislation, improve stockpile security, combat illicit trafficking and expand international cooperation.
An important milestone occurred in 2005 with the adoption of the International Tracing Instrument, which established global standards for marking, recording and tracking illegal weapons.
The framework helps investigators identify where illicit weapons originated and how they entered illegal markets, while reducing the risk of diversion from legal stockpiles.
The UN supports implementation through technical assistance, policy guidance and capacity-building programs aimed at helping governments secure weapons stockpiles, improve tracking systems and strengthen border controls.
Why is it important
Former Secretary-General Kofi Annan famously said that small arms could well be the real “power” of the world.weapons of mass destruction“ due to the enormous number of deaths and injuries they cause.
Ultimately, the challenge goes beyond deadly weapons. It is about reducing violence, protecting communities and preventing conflicts from reigniting.
Nakamitsu said reducing the circulation of illicit firearms would benefit communities around the world.
“It is a real problem for many people. We want proper control and regulation of small arms in all societies. That would definitely make everyone’s lives safer and more secure.“