Biting the Bullet: Implementing the Programme of Action 2003
This report provides an initial review of progress towards implementation of the 2001 UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All its Aspects. It aims to provide a broad and reliable overview of progress and illustrate experiences across each of the regions, to identify emerging strengths and weaknesses and contribute to on-going efforts to promote wide and effective implementation of the PoA.
The UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (PoA) now stands as the central global agreement on preventing and reducing trafficking and proliferation of SALW.
It is two years since the PoA was agreed in July 2001 at the UN Conference on the Illicit trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All its Aspects. The first Biennial Meeting of States (BMS) on the PoA will take place in July 2003, to consider progress towards its implementation. Although it is unrealistic to expect full implementation at this stage, it is important to review experience so far.
This present report is a contribution to the Biennial Meeting and to wider efforts to take stock of progress so far and identify strengths, weaknesses and priorities for the future. It outlines and assesses progress towards implementation of the PoA, drawing on data gathered for 156 countries and analysing relevant national, regional and international processes.
The scope of this report is extensive. However, it does not aim to be fully comprehensive. Rather, it aims to provide a broad and reliable overview of progress and illustrate experiences across each of the regions, to identify emerging strengths and weaknesses and contribute to on-going efforts to promote wide and effective implementation of the PoA.
