The United Nations General Assembly’s First Committee adopted by consensus on November 6 the draft resolution titled “The Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects,” submitted by Japan in collaboration with Colombia and South Africa, and co-sponsored by 83 countries. This resolution will be formally considered for adoption during the plenary session of the General Assembly in December.
The draft resolution emphasizes the significance of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (PoA), urging member states to implement effective measures for its realization. Additionally, it acknowledges the successful convening of the Fourth Review Conference of the PoA held in June 2023 and commits to ensuring that the measures outlined in the conference’s outcome document are implemented.
This resolution is crucial for promoting effective strategies to tackle the challenges posed by small arms and light weapons, reinforcing Japan’s commitment to international peace and security.