Weapons collection programmes seek to reduce the availability of small arms and light weapons in countries affected by conflict situations, by promoting community-based development projects in exchange for the surrender of these guns. This publication sets out the findings of a survey on issues relating to small arms, light weapons and personal security in Sierra Leone conducted in early 2003. The survey results are qualitative, highlighting the experiences and types of security problems people encountered at the time. Findings included the importance of assessments of personal security needs to be taken into account, working in close co-operation with local communities, prior to any project design or planning for a weapons collection programme being undertaken.
Increasingly, the use of armed force has become a feature of internal conflicts. This study examines the different dimensions of the small arms problem in Central Asia and its links with crime, corruption and violence in the community.
The illegal proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) is a global problem, and one consequence of this illicit trade is that regions can become flooded with these guns before, during and following a violent conflict. Effective tracing of these arms requires adequate marking and record-keeping systems as well as improved international co-operation by relevant authorities. This publication argues that the main obstacles to progress in this area are political in nature, rather than technological. Other issues discussed include: the selection of categories and types of SALWs for inclusion in a tracing mechanism; and the structures and institutions required for an effective firearms tracing system.
Thank you for visiting our website. Would you like to provide feedback on how we could improve your experience?
This site does not use any third party cookies with one exception — it uses cookies from Google to deliver its services and to analyze traffic.Learn More.