British American Security Information Council (BASIC), International Alert and Saferworld.
Abstract
yesSmall arms and light weapons have become the weapons of choice in conflicts around the world
and figure prominently in crime. Recently, considerable attention has been focused on the
proliferation of SALW at the national, regional and international level. The recognition that m o s t
illicit SALW began as legal weapons is, however, fundamental to efforts to reduce the proliferation
and misuse of SALW and the diversion of civilian weapons is one source of supply. Indeed,
it is estimated that there are as many SALW in the hands of civilians worldwide as there are
in the possession of states, and that in many parts of the world diversion from civilian stocks
is the principal source of the illicit supply. Consequently, strengthening domestic regulation,
which reduces the diversion of legal weapons to illegal markets, is a critical part of any strategy
to address illicit trafficking. It is also consistent with resolutions from the United Nations
Security Council and other Commissions as well as regional initiatives. This briefing reviews
the ways in which SALW are diverted from legal to illegal markets and the measures which
can be used to reduce this diversion. In addressing illicit trafficking in all its aspects, it is
imperative that the UN Conference not does neglect this significant problem
