September 16, 2019
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Country: Kuwait
Committee: DISEC
Topic: Preventing the Illicit Arms Trade
Delegate: Ethan Briggs
School: Williamston High School

 

Warfare itself has changed, from being the glorious march of armies to hit-and-run missions conducted by terrorist cells. Of course, this epic battle between nations is no longer found on the border of nations, but in third-world countries and other places where their governments are exploitable. The biggest problem, however, is how the weaponry gets into the hands of these groups of people. The UN has already passed treaties in means to end this trade, but some nations and groups have opted out of supporting it, and keep dispensing weaponry around the world. It is imperative that we stop this trade, or the idea of ending war altogether is impossible.

Kuwait is one of the nations committed to the UN Program of Action, and have taken the view that they are a leading factor of destabilization. Kuwait also supported Security Council resolutions 2117 and 2220, dealing with the topic. Kuwait was, and still is, a leading supporter of the UN Arms Trade Treaty. In home territory, a law was passed for the collection of unlicensed arms and ammunition. An awareness campaign promoting this law caused many of its citizens to voluntarily turn in their weaponry. However, Kuwait is well aware that this is their own policy, and should not be strictly enforced onto other nations.

 

Kuwait would like to see possible restrictions on nations and companies that sell arms illegally. Looking into who they are selling to would help, as it could help determine punishment. However, nations should also have a grace period to end their sale, given around 5 years. Not only that, promoting fair and open trade is a must. Many of these deals are backroom, and that is the issue we need to cut down on. Having international regulations on weaponry and purchasing would also be helpful. In less fortunate nations, checking in markets for unlicensed weaponry is a must. However, the most important thing is to respect other nations, and make sure that this trade is ended peacefully. If it is not, then we may have to face the repercussions down the road.

 

  • Ethan Briggs

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