7/11/2003
UN supports European Fight Against Small Arms

The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe has just reached agreement on the most effective methods of combating the scourge of small arms and light weapons. In addition, on France’s proposal, the first committee of the UN General Assembly decided by consensus to support the OSCE efforts.

The objective first is to slow the illicit traffic in light weapons which are circulating in Europe and are being used by criminals, Mafiosi and terrorists. But the point is also to make sure that such weapons are not sold illicitly outside Europe, in conflict areas, especially in Africa where they fuel conflicts and civil wars.

The General Assembly has also decided to launch a negotiation at global level on the marking and traceability of small arms. It’s a necessary preliminary phase in the fight against this scourge and an idea that France and Switzerland had initially put forward and defended together.

Through the negotiation on the marking and traceability, and the support the UN has now given to the OSCE, France is making a contribution to international efforts in the fight against small arms and light weapons.