Manila 2011
Noting that violence related to the illegal trade of light weapons is leading to half a million people being killed every year. 98% of people killed or injured by cluster bombs are civilians and they cause widespread harm on impact and remain dangerous long after a conflict has ended. The Convention on Cluster Munitions, signed by over 100 countries since 2008, bans this weapon.
Recalling the final report of the November 2010 Parliamentary Forum in Bogotá on Small Arms and Light Weapons, stating that the proliferation of SALW is a major threat to development, democracy and security in many parts of the world.
Recalling the ongoing armed conflicts in the world, as well as the use of light weapons in school shootings, robberies, killings and terrorist attacks all over the world.
Noting the efforts of the UN to create the necessary conditions to reduce the uncontrolled proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW). The Arms Trade Treaty will be a comprehensive instrument to control all conventional weapons — including SALW. A clear timeline for work on a legally binding treaty has been adopted aiming to be finalized in 2012. It is vital to establish a strong and robust Arms Trade Treaty with the highest common standards to control international transfers of conventional arms.
Stresses with deep concern that the restriction and control of light weapons should be a major policy goal on the humanitarian agenda worldwide.
Recognizing the need to cooperate on a global level to stop the illegal trade flow of light weapons:
