Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Afghanistan
Delegate Name: Lydia Hodgson
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, previously overran by the Soviet regime, and strongly guided by the military presence of the United States, is now determined to gain assistance in achieving peace, and providing security and justice to all civilians. Afghanistan supports the initiative for disarmament, and hopes that it will halt the presence of terrorism, violence, and elevate Afghanistan’s, as well as other nations’ socioeconomic standing, and unify people and their respective governments.

Since 2002, Afghanistan has welcomed an international support of disarmament, and increased central power. Because so many civilians are isolated, due to the geographic means, they have turned to small arms for protection. The majority of Afghans rely on small arms as a means of security, particularly those in more rural areas.

Hundreds of illegal armed groups in Afghanistan have existed with affiliations to various tribal, ethnic and political parties outside of the control of the police or military. With the increase of regulation, there will be heightened central power, and with it, hope for future equality, security, and prosperity for its civilians. Afghanistan’s New Beginnings Program (ANBP) was launched in 2003, and fueled by the UN Development Program, Mowlana Abdul Rahman Saidkhel, police chief of the northern Parwan province and a former militia commander, voluntarily surrendered 119 weapons, including six heavy weapons, to the ANBP collection teams. Since then, over 60,000 former combatants had been disarmed, as well as 24,300 light and medium weapons and 12,200 heavy weapons were collected across the country. In an attempt to disband illicit militia groups, Afghanistan and the UN launched the Disbandment of Illegal Armed Groups (DIAG) initiative, in 2005. Overseen by the UN, and ran by the interior defense ministries and the national security agency, more than 20,000 arms have been collected since the program’s beginnings, according to the disarmament commission.

The presence of small arms has simultaneously empowered and crippled Afghans. Given the unaccomodating terrain of the country and fledgling state of our current government, any form of security we can offer our people would be beneficial. Afghanistan believes that although the right to possess a firearm should be protected, it is our duty as UN member states to halt the spread and possession of illicit small arms and light weapons. It is possible for this to be achieved through stricter record keeping for purchases of weaponry within each member state, as well as biannual updates on transactions and purchases of firearms both within and between member states. It is our duty to promote peace and we must abide by this by progressing with this initiative.

Works Cited:

"Guns Out of Control: The Continuing Threat of Small Arms." IRINnews. IRIN, n.d. Web. 17 Nov. 2014.

"General Assembly." Southeast European and Black Sea Studies 7.2 (2007): 331-33. Afghanistan-UN. Web. 17 Nov. 2014.

American Progress., Stopping the Destructive Spread of Small Arms (n.d.): n. pag. American Progress. Center for American Progress. Web. 17 Nov. 2014.

"Disarmament and Reintegration in Afghanistan." International Crisis Group. International Crisis Group, n.d. Web. 17 Nov. 2014.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Albania
Delegate Name: Molly Miller
School: Mattawan High School

Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs) are becoming a growing problem across the globe. The international arms trade, an underground an illegal operation, distributes these banned weapons to groups that have the potential to cause chaos. These weapons allow individuals and groups to murder, rape, and torture their victims. Unfortunately, there is little information available concerning small arms and light weapons. The unknown data makes it difficult for the issue of SALWs to be combatted. Furthermore, the number of SALWs must be reduced.

In Albania, transfer control law, with the value of exports being $549,467, limits firearm exports and imports. In 2000, the Government of Albania reaffirmed its commitment to destroy SALWs and promote the process of destroying illegal firearm stockpiles worldwide. Albania does not guarantee the right to privately own a gun. Albanian authorities maintain records of civilians who are licensed to posses a firearm. From 1997 to 2005, Albania destroyed 201,365 firearms that had been collected. However, it is not our policy to always destroy seized firearms. Our authorities have implemented many voluntary SALWs seizures. It is unlawful in Albania to distribute and buy firearms without a valid license. Albania is a part of numerous international SALWs controls, including the UNPoA and the Geneva Declaration of Armed Violence and Development.

Albania believes that information must be shared amongst countries in order for SALWs to be tracked and the issue solved. Albania thinks that countries should become involved in an international database in order to keep track of the trading of SALWs. Border control must also be improved and reinforced so weapons will be less likely distributed amongst countries. Albania believes that countries should reduce the number of firearms that are manufactured. Additionally, all nations must be in agreement to restrict SALWs and take action, otherwise this issue will never be solved. Albania believes that the public should be made aware of this issue. Education is the first step towards resolving the distribution of SALWs. Repercussions must also be enacted for anyone who is illegally involved with SALWs. However, we must not fight violence with violence.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Argentina
Delegate Name: Emma McNorton
School: Royal Oak High School

Argentina has long been a fervent ally in combating the illicit trade and spread of small arms and light weapons (SALW). In 2000, prior to the United Nations Conference on the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons, Argentina released a statement showing their support of the cause and belief that our goals can be achieved relatively easily as long as we cooperate on the individual, regional, and international level.

Argentina believes that if we are to be affective in our endeavours; a centralized international register on the illicit manufacture of and trafficking in firearms, ammunition, explosives and related materials must be developed and maintained as a form of international transparency.

And if nations of this committee mold their legislation from here on, to model the decisions of this diplomatic body, we will be a united front against the manufacturers and transporters of illegal small arms and light weapons.

Progress has since been made thanks to the diplomatic cooperation of the United Nations, through the signing and ratification of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). Sellers will now for the first time consider what their buyers will do with the weapons they sell them. This will in the near future curb the effect of these deadly weapons and save thousands.

In this committee Argentina would like to focus on ways of safeguarding already existing stockpiles of SLAWs, and to encourage not only international cooperation, but also regional. Every region has singular problems and Argentina believes with regional cooperation issues can be solved more effectively, and urges the committee to consider that in the following days.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Australia
Delegate Name: Annie Meyer-Rasmussen
School: East Grand Rapids High School

Australia used to fall amongst the plethora of countries that struggled with gun control. Throughout the 1990s, multiple killings occurred in Australia. On April 29, 1996 in Port Arthur, a man killed 35 people and injured 23 with the use of semi-automatic rifles. This triggered Australia to create further restrictions on small arms and light weapons (SALWs) in order to keep the public safe. Australia believes that tracking small arms trading is integral to keeping crime rates low and order amongst nations. Australia’s goal is to guarantee that only responsible citizens are able to attain firearms. It is apparent to Australia that the UN’s current procedures for managing the SALW trade are inadequate. These ineffective measures can improve in the following ways: the greater usage of surveillance on nation borders can be used to track illicit weapons; more countries can create a buyback program; the UN can play an active role in managing SALWs by utilizing peacekeeping missions and intervening on countries more often when it is necessary.

Australia has served as an international exemplar and has set a precedent of how to deal with small arms and light weapons. After the Port Arthur massacre, Australia prohibited the use of all semi-automatic and pump-action guns and established a public education campaign. Australia believed the measures taken were beneficial to the country; 95% of Australians preferred the new laws to the old ones. Beyond this, within the ten years between 1991 and 2001, firearm-related deaths were reduced by 47%. The results are partially due to the public education campaign; these campaigns can be used to show the potential dangers of weapons as well as to make people rethink the attractiveness of the weapons. However, Australia believes that education can only be successful if it is paired with weapon collection. Australia exhibited this in the largest weapon collection program in history where 644,000 weapons were exchanged for money. The Australian government destroyed the weapons that were turned in. Unfortunately, nations around the world, including Australia, are still looking for the most effective way to prevent the smuggling of SALWs. Australia believes that greater surveillance will remedy this issue and allow countries to better track firearms. Australia urges other countries to focus more on SALWs because the situation must be resolved at a regional or national level before it can be dealt with worldwide.

Moreover, Australia has contributed to situations and resolutions outside of its own country. For example, in 2003, Australia helped the Solomon Islands return to peace by taking weapons from antagonists. Australia has also signed and ratified the Arms Trade Treaty. This treaty establishes an international standard for arms trade; it aims to lower the number of illegal arms that are traded. This treaty will also require states to keep records of arms exports and give yearly reports on the transfers. Australia believes that ratifying the treaty will lead to less illicit arms-related violence. Australia has partnered with the United Kingdom, Argentina, Costa Rica, Japan, Finland, and Kenya to write the treaty and build international support. Australia believes that the United Kingdom shares the core values related to disarmament that are upheld in Australia. For example, the United Kingdom passed major restrictions on firearms near the same time as Australia did; in reality, the U.K. continued a step further by practically banning all handguns. The United Kingdom also conducted a buyback program like Australia’s. Both countries have experienced success with their methods. They encourage other countries to follow their lead and sign and ratify the Arms Trade Treaty.

With all this said, Australia would like to see discussion on surveillance and sharing information in the conference.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Austria
Delegate Name: Marcus McKay
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Austria believes that SALWs must be for thoroughly checked at all borders. Information on the sale of SALWs should be recorded by all sources and stored in international tracking organizations. Access to this information should be available to including, but not limited to all national governments. Confidentiality of this information is harmful towards trusting nations. And that can threaten the way SALWs are perceived in one nation, in comparison to another.

The efforts to remove SALWs out of circulation can be improved by making them more authorized weaponry of self defense. Austria believes that illegal trade is not a threat. However, the circulation in some areas of the globe should be overlooked. There are many accounts of unauthorized trade used for illegal activity. Austria believes that these instances do not place all SALWs as the cause of such illegal activity. But more along the lines as "weapons of choice". Therefore, not labeling SALWs as the reason crimes involve them for the criminals initial intent of illegal use.

By making SALWs a common form of self defense, the global community can see the gains towards security that humans can benefit from SALWs. This can be done by making SALWs available to all nations. If all nations have access to SALWs, training can be given. Austria encourages the method of licensing on a local level of government. Austria would like to have this topic discussed thoroughly during committee and is willing to meet an agreement with nations of similar interests regarding this matter.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Bangladesh
Delegate Name: Miriam Attal
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The global spread of small arms and light weapons, or SALWs, is a platform for the violence and terrorism throughout our globe. While weapons are not necessarily causing violence, they do stimulate fear and tension between large groups and individuals, leading to conflict-related deaths. Crimes involved with organized crime, gangs, or terrorist groups usually are strengthened by their access to large stockpiles of weapons. This large-scale possession is mainly supported by the illicit trade of SALWs. The inability to counteract their production is impeded by the illegal nature of their manufacturing and the lack of information on each countries use of SALWs. Bangladesh wishes to limit the large stockpiling of weapons, decrease the production of SAWLs, and create an efficient method to collect information on the spread of SAWLs.

The country of Bangladesh deals with a permeable border, resulting in a high rate of illegal arms trade through 48 border points. Bangladesh has a crucial geographical location within Southeast Asia, causing it to become a transit point into China and Pakistan. To discourage these actions, Bangladesh has implemented a national Small Arms Destruction Day to raise public awareness and corresponds with the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms regularly. The Programme of Action, a 64 point plan to decrease the use SAWLs and to circumvent their spread, has almost been fully enacted, along with many national laws to stem the spread of SAWLs. A unique mark is required on every firearm to differentiate between illegal and legal arms, helping authorites in their identification of arms.

Solving this issue will require procedures to enhance border security, limit the supply and demand of SAWLs, and raise public awareness of illegal arms, such as an international day to destroy SAWLs. Stronger enforcement is required to ensure that each country reports to the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms and implements the Programme of Action quickly, which will also encourage global participation and unity. Imprinting the manufacturer’s details on firearms should be necessary, to make it easier to track weapons. With that in place, the media can report on how many crimes are committed with SAWLs, to further public awareness. Enhancing border security, implementing programs designed to lessen the production of SAWLs, government enforcement of various laws, and raising public awareness must all be utilized to combat the spread of SAWLs.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Belarus
Delegate Name: Ethan Bradley
School: Royal Oak High School

Belarus has always been completely in favor of protecting its own citizens, as well as foreigners. We believe that it falls within that to protect our people from arms trafficking. We believe that it is the duty of every nation to do everything within its power to limit the use of small arms and light weapons (SALWs).

Firstly, Belarus believes that the UN should review current measures to combat SALWs. For example, Belarus has a system in place to combat small arms, which involves the use of special storage facilities to keep these SALWs in secure government possession. A representative of the Foreign Ministry of Belarus presented a report during the discussion of the international cooperation for full and efficient implementation of the program of action. “It has been noted that Belarus has been successfully implementing the OSCE/UN joint project on the modernization of the storage systems for small arms and light weapons at the 13 facilities of the Defense Ministry since 2007. Today the total budget of the project makes up about $6.3 million." As this system has caused some improvements on the situation of SALWs, Belarus would advise increasing funds for this program, so as to add additional security to these facilities, and possibly open more facilities.

Next it is necessary that we discuss the addition of entirely new programs to limit the issue of SALWs. Belarus believes it to be imperative that this be discussed, and we are open to discussion during committee debate.

It is important that people are aware of the devastation that this issue can cause. Through education and advocacy, we may move closer to the ultimate goal of erasing this issue entirely.

Though it is likely impossible to completely end this problem, we can cooperate to strive towards perfection, even knowing that we may never reach it. By striving to limit the use of SALWs, we can save many peoples' lives, and make the whole world a safer place.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Belgium
Delegate Name: Brianna Wetherbee
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The possession and distribution of SALW is a global issue. Millions of people die due to gun violence each year. Small arms and light weapons are to blame for the most weaponry related fatalities worldwide. International attention must be brought to this topic before more lives are needlessly lost. There is a growing black market in the illegal trade of small arms and light weapons. In order to solve this problem, we must infiltrate the black market and try to combat the illicit trade of SALW. Belgium is eager to work with any country willing to address this issue.

The UN initiated the Programme of Action Implementation Support System in 2001 in order to reduce the illicit trade of SALW. However, we still face a serious threat from this black market trade. Belgium, along with other European countries, is passionate about this topic and we have confidence that NATO forces can significantly minimize this threat.

In an effort to combat this issue, Belgium proposes infiltrating the black market which sells SALW with NATO undercover personnel. Once they have gotten inside the market, NATO spies will proceed to uncover any and all information; leaders, typical buyers, sellers, etc. Within six months we would expect news from NATO agents as to the information previously stated including regular schedules of the buyers/sellers. Once we believe we have effectively gotten all necessary information we will make a coordinated attack against the leadership of the black market making a dramatic cut in the illicit the trade of SALW.

Belgium would appreciate the full cooperation of the UN to combat civilian casualties due SALW. We find it imperative that all nations support this initiative. The Non-Poliferation Treaty has received more signatures than any other treaty regarding arms disarmament. Belgium, however, believes that the NPT should encompass new ideas outlined here combating the illicit trade of SALW.

We are only trying to help matters and welcome additional suggestions. The UN has tried to address this issue numerous times in the past. Now is the time to truly make a difference! With the support of other nations Belgium believes we can slash the number of deaths now tragically caused by the black market trade in SALW.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Benin
Delegate Name: Matthew Leman
School: Royal Oak High School

The Republic of Benin believes that the illegal trade of small arms and light weapons its a very serious issue facing the world. The appearance of small arms and light weapons (SALWs) in areas around the world causes fighting and general instability in the surrounding regions. Currently it is very hard to track the production and distribution of SALWs because they are often sold and moved around through other countries illegally.

Benin currently has very little gun related deaths but we still recognise the importance of stopping and tracking SALWs. We currently are training New police officers for border patrol and sponsoring civilian education programs to have our people be able to look out for themselves.We currently do not have a way of tracking or recording illegal SALWs crossing over our borders, which is where we believe the United Nations should step in. We believe an international data base should be created with all countries contributing and receiving info on weapons movements. Also we believe that individual countries should work closely with gun producers to get accurate and quick statements on numbers of guns sold and where they are going.

Benin believes that removing or destroying all weapons world wide should not be an option. People should have the right to defend their property and families, however countries should do their part in patrolling their borders and monitoring gun exports and imports. Benin believes that these ideas will help stop the spread of SALWs.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Bolivia
Delegate Name: Dezirea Parris
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

Issue: Combating the spread of small arms and light weapons

In 1995, President Clinton tried getting several states to work with the United States to shut down gray markets that provided criminals and terrorists with weapons that cause mass destruction. Approximately 70 states produce various types of light weapons and ammunition. The black market also played a role in violating the arms sales law. Limiting ammunition production could ultimately decrease violence among our nations.

Bolivia understands that small arms and light weapons are one of the main causes of violence throughout our nations. By setting up strict guidelines we would not only weaken the amount of individuals carrying a weapon, we would increase the amount of people who are responsible enough to carry a gun and use it for the right purposes. For instance, instead of using weapons as an act of violence and using them for protection only would be a lot more beneficial. Bolivia hopes to get the nations to agree with keeping weapons of any kind at a minimum to reduce tragidies.

Bolivia believes all nations should lower the spread of small arms and light weapons to a minimum, to decrease the amount of violence in each country. By enforcing age and questions of why citizens would like to have weapons in their possession, we would break down some of the major issues that seem to be getting in the way of world peace.

Which so happen to be the thought of change and disagreements on things that could be beneficial.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Brazil
Delegate Name: Emily Livermore
School: East Grand Rapids High School

Over the past several years, the circulation of small arms and light weapons in Brazil has been associated with the increase in crime and violence across the nation. The Brazilian government has sought to deal with this issue directly as it is a threat to public security[1]. Brazil is proud to have made some progress through different plans and initiatives, however globally it still has a long way to go. Brazil understands that this is a complex issue and certain regions see the realities more than others. In addition to annual celebration of July 9th, Small Arms Destruction International Day, Brazil hopes to strengthen control over small arms through governmental powers and non-governmental organizations.

In 1998, Brazil sponsored a resolution, joined with Canada, which was adopted by the United Nations Commission for Crime and Criminal Justice. It dealt with the trafficking of firearms. In June of 2000 the National Public Security plan was launched in Brazil. Two of the major goals of this plan were gun control and improving public security intelligence[2]. These are examples of initiatives Brazil has made in the past, but obviously so much more is to be done.

Brazil may be a medium-sized producer when it comes to small arms, but the industry makes up an extremely small part of the national economy. After extensive research on the small arms market in Brazil, the Brazilian government can see that the majority of the arms are in the possession of private citizens of the informal market or in the hands of criminals. Brazil believes that in order to control the criminal market, it must act with efficiency and intelligence[3]. Therefore, Brazil would be in support of mitigating SALW's through widespread education.

The issue of small arms is vastly diverse when it comes to how it affects each nation and region. Unregistered guns could end up in the hands of criminals or the hands of guards of illegal mines[4]. This is why Brazil thinks it is of the utmost importance to carefully consider each individual region’s perspective and unique conditions. Brazil hopes to continue implementing action plans and initiatives that work efficiently to document where the small arms are, what the legal status of them is, and who possesses them. From here we will be better equipped to have more control over small arms in our nation.

1 Dr. José Gregori Minister of Justice, “United Nations Conference on the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects”, New York, U.S.A. 9, July, 2001.

2 Dr. José Gregori Minister of Justice

3 Pablo Dreyfus, Small Arms in Brazil: Production, Trade, and Holdings (Switzerland: Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, 2010)

4 Dreyfus

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Canada
Delegate Name: Drew Baloga
School: East Grand Rapids High School

The issue of the control of small arms and light weapons is very controversial and has heavy implications. In many countries the trade of weapons cannot be tracked because there is no database that provides information as to how many small arms and light weapons are in circulation. There are so many small arms and light weapons currently in private hands that it would be very difficult to track all of them or begin to take them out of circulation.

The control of small arms and light weapons is an issue that Canada does not currently wish to support because they feel that it could put the rights of recreational weapon owners at risk. It would a problem for the sale of small arms and light weapons to be restricted because the economic implications would be very bad for Canada. Canada imported about 2.52 million U.S. dollars worth of weapons and ammunition between 2006 and 2012 and many in Canada are worried that this number could be greatly reduced if international gun control methods were implemented on domestic gun owners in Canada. Also, the Canadian government is worried that if they have to implement stronger gun control then it will lead to less legal acquisition of guns and more illegal trade.

Some look to a international weapon registry to allow guns to be tracked and controlled, but this would be very expensive and unrealistic given the large of number of weapons that would need to registered. Another solution would be to implement buyback programs to take guns out of circulation. Canada supports this and feels that it is practical as long as it does not take away weapons from recreational gun owners.

Solutions that Canada supports are those that involve solely dealing with regions where gun control is an issue as well as making sure that no gun ownership rights are revoked. Efforts to take small arms and light weapons out of circulation can be improved if they stay away from harmless recreational gun owners and focus on those in situations where they possession of weapons is a legitimate danger. It is possible to mitigate the effects of the small arms and light weapons trade through the use of widespread education and advocacy efforts because this would limit the dangers of these weapons and decrease their illegal use without restricting the ownership of them. Tracking or registering small arms and light weapons is near impossible, very expensive, and not an option that Canada believes should be pursued. This is because of the many issues such as costliness, uselessness, and unaccountability associated with the gun registry that used to be present in Canada.1

1. "Firearms Lobby Warns Ottawa against Signing UN Arms Trade Treaty." The Globe and Mail. Web. 16 Nov. 2014. <http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/firearms-lobby-warns-ottawa-against-signing-un-arms-trade-treaty/article14653890/>.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Central African Republic
Delegate Name: Grace Canfield
School: Williamston High School

The most concerning issue relating to this topic is that the international community has found no comprehensive way to define the problem or the extent of the spread of small arms and light weapons. The guesses for the spread of small arms and light weapons put the amount of small arms at 640 to 850 million small arms existing worldwide. The spread of small arms presents such a pressing problem because while the actual spread is usually covert and hard to control or even to track, the havoc and destruction wreaked by small arms and light weapons is devastating, especially to unstable countries prone to civil wars or small-scale insurgencies.

The Central African Republic has a great interest in controlling the spread of small arms because Central Africans are arguably among the largest victims of small arms and light weapons. Our governmental system has become incredibly unstable due to insurgencies and coups staged behind small arms and light weapons, a majority of which were illegally obtained and are now being used nefariously to spread terror throughout our country. These arms are typically obtained through illegal means by the time they get to insurgents in our country, however the largest suppliers of small arms and light weapons are the United States and several large European countries. Of course these weapons were not originally manufactured for the purposes that they are now used for by insurgents and in civil wars.

The Central African Republic would like to see tighter security policies on the exportation and importation of these weapons. Sources of small arms exports should have more of a hand in the process of exporting and delivery of these weapons, and international law should be put in place that requires a stricter policy on exportation. Exporters should send agents to be sure that the correct source is receiving these guns, and agents should thoroughly investigate the consumers that they are selling large quantities of small arms and ammunition. The Central African Republic realizes that there is no way to prevent the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons, however we believe that it is necessary to cut the problem off at the source. It is vital that we reach a viable resolution to this problem, as it is putting civilians and children at risk not only in our own country, but in many countries in Africa and the Middle East.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Chad
Delegate Name: Henry Atkins
School: Grand Rapids City High School

Today, small arms and light weapons (SALWs) hugely destabilize governments, threaten the international order, and kill millions. The relatively small nature of these weapons belies their true capacity for destruction and it is of the utmost importance that the United Nations develop a reasonable mechanism to limit non-state actors’ access to them. This problem, increasingly prevalent in the post-Cold War era, occurs due to the ease with which non-state actors are able to gain access to small arms and light weapons such as assault rifles, machine guns and rocket propelled grenades. These weapons are relatively portable, lightweight, and inexpensive while also being capable of inflicting catastrophic loss of life. Today, more than 500,000 people die each year due to small arms and light weapons, representing 90% of civilian deaths in conflict zones. Furthermore, the prevalence of these weapons appears to be increasing at an alarming rate due to global arms production as well as inabilities to combat illicit trade of SALWs: in the period from 1990-2006, there were 49 armed conflicts. Of these, 46 were dominated by small arms and light weapons. Furthermore, the rate of casualties is on the increase relative to 1990, before many stockpiles of weapons became more accessible following the collapse of the Soviet Union. From 1990 to 2006, small arms and light weapons caused the deaths of four million people. However, as mentioned above, today they kill 500,000 a year–double the previous average amount. At this meeting, we must find ways to combat the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons if we hope to reduce this shocking amount of deaths and stabilize regions.

This problem was acknowledged in Security Council Resolutions 1013, 1161, 1170 and 1209, all of which expressed alarm at the growing illicit arms trade and advised affected states to take action to control access to SALWs. In 2001, the United Nations adopted the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects. Boldly, the Programme of Action stated member states’ plan to cut down on the SALW trade through a variety of means. Measures enumerated within the text of the Programme of Action include increased control of production, import, and export of SALWs, the establishment of national coordination agencies to make the effort more efficient, improved weapon marking control and information gathering, commitments to destroy surplus SALWs, and providing mechanisms for forces to demobilize after periods of conflict. At the 2012 Review Conference on Illicit Arms Trade, Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson noted that many countries were effectively dealing with SALWs through national legislation as well as increased arms depot security. On behalf of the General Assembly President, Milan Jaya Nyamrajsingh Meetarbhan of Mauritius further noted that most members had established national coordinating agencies and many expressed willingness to aid other countries with technical issues. Overall, 161 member countries had submitted reports on their efforts every year since 2002. In addition, members praised the efforts of regional agencies designed to combat the SALW trade, such as the Nairobi Protocol. However, members also noted problems with implementation of the Programme of Action. In a report titled “A Decade of Implementing the United Nations Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons: Analysis of National Reports,” disarmament researcher Sarah Parker noted that 20% of member states had no controls on SALW manufacturing, along with a host of other issues. Clearly, there are improvements that must be made at the present meeting.

The Republic of Chad has suffered terribly from these deadly weapons. A long, costly battle against terrorists from 2005-2011 cost this nation thousands of lives and produced 168,000 refugees. Today, our neighbors are consumed with violence: Sudan’s ongoing conflict in Darfur, the desperate struggle against Boko Haram in Nigeria and Cameroon, the ethnic violence that threatens the very survival of the Central African Republic as a nation-state, and the contest for Libya between fractious militia coalitions all take place on the Republic of Chad’s borders. This nation has offered a generous open-door policy to those fleeing violence and persecution–however, harboring nearly 540,000 refugees strains this nation’s ability to provide for its own people. The Republic of Chad remains committed, both inside and outside of its borders, to reduce the ease of acquisition of small arms and light weapons by non-state actors. Firmly, the Republic calls on the United Nations to develop a swift and comprehensive plan to aid the implementation of the 2001 Programme of Action. Several areas have been identified as needing strong improvement. For example, just 40% of member nations mark their weapons during the manufacturing process. It is clear that stronger regulations are needed to ensure that this does not continue. Overall, the Republic of Chad wishes to see an agreement that addresses lack of funding that some nations need for these programs, raises prices in buyback programs to incentivize non-state actors to hand over their arms, decreases production of weapons and a stronger effort toward removing these weapons immediately after conflicts end.

Every proposal will have its opponents, and the Republic of Chad expects opposition from those countries which actively benefit from proliferation of weapons. Sadly, some countries remain more interested in destabilizing neighbors or engaging in proxy wars than in legitimate efforts to limit the production and distribution of these deadly materials. The Republic of Chad hopes to develop strong partnerships on this issue with those nations that have aggressively dealt with limiting the small arms and light weapons trade in the past. This delegation expects to work with nations such as the United States, which states that “The proliferation of conventional weapons…poses a direct threat to the national security of the United States,” and Australia, which agrees that “Australia and other members of the international community recognise the need for early, concerted action to address the problems posed by small arms and light weapons.” The Republic of Chad will speak strongly for the need to address the spread of these weapons which threaten the stability not just of any single country, but of the entire world. Optimistically, the Republic of Chad looks forward to the chance to develop stronger implementation and enforcement measures at this meeting.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Chile
Delegate Name: Ashley Christian
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

Imagine walking down the street and suddenly getting mugged by someone with a small hand held weapon; maybe that weapon was registered, but maybe it wasn’t. So many more incidents could be resolved with the end to the spread of small arms and light weapons. “Our collective responsibility is clear: to prevent the flow of small arms into post-conflict areas and into the hands of warlords and traffickers,” (Secretary-General Jan Eliasson). Speakers in the UN agreed on the need for an action-oriented plan for the Program of Action during the next intercessional period.

We believe that the use of small firearms and light weapons is getting out of control and we need to continue the Program of Action to reach peace. Central America is affected by the high levels of violence, and is impacting the protection of the population. Chile has constant issues with gang related violence, and we believe that if we work our way towards enforcing small arms laws with who can have them and for what, we can reach a better and safer nation.

Chile would like the rules in the Program of Action to become stricter during these next few years. If the rules of the program are enforced, then we have a better chance of protecting our people. We want to make sure that the safety of our people is the most important aspect, and this can only be accomplished if we start enforcing rules. Other than enforcing the rules, we have no other opinions on combating this spread of small arms and light weapons.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: China
Delegate Name: Isabel Ivanescu
School: Roeper School

The issue of the spread and improper use of Small Arms and Light Weapons has plagued our world for decades, so the People’s Republic of China is appreciative of existence of a meeting to address and resolve the issue.

In addressing the topic, China would like to reiterate the framework it expressed at the 2012 Review Conference of the Program of Action to Prevent, Combat, and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects. The issue must be handled in four distinct policy arenas. First, in the policies of sovereign governments regarding the manufacturing, possession, transfer, and stockpiling of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs). Second, in the policies of the United Nations regarding the enforcement of existing treaties and facilitating discussion and coordination. Third, in intergovernmental policies regarding coordination and cooperation. Fourth, in international policies regarding the underlying causes of the misuse of SALWs, namely poverty, lack of education, and social instability.1

Domestically, China, though a leading exporter of SALWs, has established a strict system from preventing the proliferation of these weapons to illegitimate owners. There are only four enterprises in China licensed to export SALWs, all of which are under state and military control.2 The process of licensing, even according to impartial non-governmental sources, involves examination by authorities of whether the export “is conducive to the self-defense capability of the recipient country, its impact on regional and world peace, stability and security, and whether it could interfere with the recipient country’s internal affairs.”3 In fact, China’s sales of SALWs strengthen the military capabilities of developing, “fragile, and conflict-affected states in particular,”4 thus allowing them to more successful quell instability and prevent the rise of armed non-governmental actors and terror groups. China would urge other nations that produce SALWs to adopt similar export standards. However, China recognizes and supports the right of every sovereign state to determine its internal policies and practices.

In the United Nations, China played an integral role in the negotiation of the 2013 Arms Trade Treaty (ATT or the Treaty); sadly, in the end, China could not accede to the treaty in its final form, due to the fact that the treaty did not enjoy full consensus, a modality which China does not desire to see as standard operating procedure in multilateral negotiations; furthermore, the Treaty did not address several of China’s concerns, and thus China was forced to abstain.5 However, China voted in favor of the only Security Council resolution regarding the trade of SALWs, and remains fully committed to further United Nations action to combat the spread and use of illicit SALWs.

Intergovernmentally, China desires increased cooperation and intelligence sharing. China would be in favor of the establishment of a procedure for communication of information on the attainment of SALWs by unlawful groups to the nations within which the groups are operating. China feels that such a framework would be highly beneficial regardless of whether it is established under United Nations purview, or simply as a multilateral agreement. China would also favor an international registry of SALW identification numbers and believed ownership and location, so that nations could trace where their exports finally arrive and alert themselves as to which shipments should not be approved.

Internationally, China believes that it is necessary that all nations cooperate to provide humanitarian assistance aimed at reducing the supply of SALWs and addressing the principal causes of SALWs use increase. Buy-back programs have had some success in removing SALWs from circulation; however, in many instances, such cases are inhibited by lack of government resources. China proposes that an international fund be created through the United Nations for distributing money and humanitarian aid in exchange for SALWs that are turned-in to the United Nations. The nations which contributed to the fund may then decide the providence of the weapons in accordance to their contributions. Additionally, individual nations and the United Nations should continue their efforts to increase global standards of living, provide for proper education, and peaceful social situations. China believes that other committees of the United Nations have already addressed how this should be accomplished, and would defer to their judgement while requesting the assistance of all capable nations.

In conclusion, China restates that “All states need to work together, share weal and woe and pursue a win-win situation, so as to meet the common security challenges confronting mankind.”6 China is certain that this type of solidarity and cooperation will be evident in the upcoming gathering of our committee.

References:

i Statement by Permanent Representative of China to the UN Ambassador Wang Guangya at the UN Conference to Review Progress Made in the Implementation of the Program of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in SALW in All Its Aspects, Permanent Mission of the People’s Republic of China to the United Nations, 2012

ii China Is a Leading Proliferator of Small Arms, The Diplomat Magazine, 2013

iii China’s Exports of Small Arms and Light Weapons Policy Paper, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, 2013

iv China’s Exports of Small Arms and Light Weapons Policy Paper, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, 2013

v Overwhelming Majority of States in General Assembly Say ‘Yes’ to Arms Trade Treaty to Stave of Irresponsible Transfers that Perpetuate Conflict, Human Suffering, United Nations Meetings Coverage and Press Releases, 2013vi Statement by the Chinese Delegation at the General Debate of United Nations Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty, Permanent Mission of the People’s Republic of China to the United Nations, 2012

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Congo
Delegate Name: Hannah Jackson
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

The Democratic Republic of Congo believes that the global spread of small arms and light weapons must be prevented and halted where it is already existent. Small arms and light weapons are detrimental to human rights, because they make it simple to carry out violent crimes. DR Congo believes that the tracking of small arms and light weapons is absolutely essential to stopping their spread, and that the easiest way to accomplish this tracking is to create a global network for sharing information on the location of small arms and light weapons. This would require, however, cooperation from all nations of the world, something that can only happen if the international community is truly committed to stopping the illicit distribution of these weapons.

As a signatory to the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All its Aspects, DR Congo is committed to preventing the distribution of small arms and light weapons by taking steps such as implementing national laws to regulate importing of small arms and light weapons, establishing laws to prevent stockpiling of these small arms and light weapons, and to increase education and awareness of the small arms and light weapons trade. We believe that education about small arms and light weapons is critical, because this would promote cooperation and peace among the states of the world. We also believe that it would be in the international community's best interest for the secretary general to collect information on the small arms and light weapons trade, and to report this information to the UN. These steps can all help combat the spread of small arms and light weapons.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Cuba
Delegate Name: Sean Flikkema
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The country of Cuba feels that the right to bear arms, understanding the possible dangers of doing so. The right to bear arms should be allowed as long as it kept under a cautious watch. Illegal trade of arms should not be allowed and needs to be put to a stop. Cuba suggests the following method in order to stop illegal arms trade without infringing on a nation's rights or upon a citizen's right to bear arms: introduce more strict gun purchasing licensees, including a much more thorough background check on the person who desires to purchase the weapon. Another possible method would to attach tracking devices on select weapons sold, on the most commonly used or sold weapons. If the tracking device was tampered with, or brought into a public area outlawing the carrying of arms, the tracking device on the weapon would notificate the government. This method, although could provide useful, would no doubt be expensive and therefore makes it somewhat useless, especially in the use of the poorer countries. The introduction of better and more thorough background checks, and possibly more difficult gun licenes could solve the problem at hand better. Also, another possible suggestion would be to have the gun owners be required to bring in their weapons on a set time period (i.e: every six months) and have the gun or weapon checked as well as another back ground check completed in order for the person to keep their weapon. These suggestions could possibly see the end of illegal small arms trade.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Delegate Name: Annie Lilac
School: Mattawan High School

The Democratic Republic of the Congo acknowledges the need to take action concerning the spread of small arms and light weapons (SALWs). Not only does it enable violence to be committed by individuals against other citizens, but it also allows groups of non-state actors to become armed threats to national governments. In the DRC’s history, armed groups have managed to overthrow different government regimes and create chaos within and around her borders. In recent years, several armed groups, such as M23, have become threats once again. These non-state actors often receive their weapons via smuggling over the DRC’s borders and threaten national security as well as the welfare of its citizens. For example, the Congo Revolutionary Movement is a group thought to receive their weapons from Uganda and is known for capturing, torturing, and killing civilians and government officials that they consider their enemies. Other groups use SALWs to extort goods, food, and money from locals in the eastern portion of the DRC.

In terms of gun regulations, the Democratic Republic of the Congo already has strict laws in place regarding civilian possession of any firearms other than self-defense handguns or pistols, and believes it is important to maintain that freedom. However, some changes obviously need to be made in order reduce the number of SALWs that fall into the hands of non-state actors with destructive intentions. The DRC is already an active supporter of the United Nation’s “Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat, and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects,” and would like to see its suggestions furthered in future resolutions. The DRC would also appreciate an international body to help keep information on SALWs in other countries public and promote cooperation between countries to reduce the spread of SALWs via smuggling.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Denmark
Delegate Name: Eric Steeby
School: Grand Rapids City High School

Denmark ambassador for disarmament and international security

Denmark remains deeply concerned by the threat posed by SALWs. Which is why Denmark has passed rigorous laws in an attempt to curve the violence caused by SALWs that can be demoralizing to societies.While we remain proud of our efforts over the last two decades that have lead us to average less then 100 SALWs related deaths each year. We realize there is much more Denmark can do both domestically and internationally to combat the threats posed by SALWs.

It has become apparent to Denmark that the efforts of this body and the United Nations as a whole have not been enough to combat one of the most serious global issues of the modern world. While Denmark does not wish to interfere with the affairs of the countries that guarantee their citizens the right to possess SALWs.We realize such countries must be willing to make changes domestically with the support of the international community if we are to successfully combat the spread of SALWs.

However, Denmark still believes there are ways in which the international community can work together to face the challenges posed by SALWs. Denmark is pleased to see the upcoming entrance into effect of the Arms Trade Treaty and hopes the international community can work together in good faith to ensure the implantation and enforcement of the treaty. However, the ATT is not enough on its own. While we cannot make it illegal for people to own SALWs. We can encourage them to Voluntary to give them up. Denmark has seen the effects a well-managed gun buyback program can have, and we see large potential for an international buyback program for SALWs sanctioned by the United Nations

While Denmark realizes, there is a place in the world for SALWs. We also realize the lack of regulations have allowed them to become an issue. Denmark remains willing to work with any countries to combat the serious issue of SALWs.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Egypt
Delegate Name: Nathan DeBoer
School: Mattawan High School

Egypt is located in the Middle East in northern Africa. It has gone through a lot of civil unrest and currently the military is in control after over throwing the Muslim Brother Hood. Being located in the Middle East and in Africa Egypt is not new the use of Small Arms and Light Weapons and the problems they present. They have been working with The League of Arab States to fight this problem through out the Middle East. Currently, the United Nations is debating the most effective ways to combat the Spread of Small Arms and Weapons. Egypt fully supports the eradication of SALW’s. These are weapons that can be carried by a single person are mostly used in acts of terror, civil wars, organized crime, and gang warfare. Due to their deadliness the United Nations is asking that all countries report the amount of SALW’s illicit or licit inside of their country and their possession, trade and use of them. From there, steps must be taken to prevent their use and spread. One proposal is the buyback of these weapons with food, medicine, farming and equipment, though some groups will be unlikely to sacrifice their weapons. So Egypt has a few ideas to help with the eradication of SALW’s. Egypt proposes to help with this problem to first focus on Africa. Africa itself contains more SALW’s then any other area, making it a highly targeted area. Also Egypt would like for this proposal to provide more help to developing states and states coming out of conflict. These states will struggle to eradicate SAWL's on their own. The illicit exploitation of natural resources must be addressed as well as it is a primary source for the purchase of Small Arms and Light Weapons. Egypt supports this proposal but it does need a few changes to make it stronger and more effective.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Ethiopia
Delegate Name: Kyler Cousins
School: Roeper School

The illicit trade of light arms and small weapons has affected Ethiopia. We have had two major conflicts in the not so distant- civil war in 1975 and the Eritrean war for independence in 1962 lasting until 1992- as a result; small arms and minefields plague Ethiopia. As the British government estimated “at least 400,000 people are killed by illegal small arms and light weapons each year.” The problem of small arms is a major issue for development and security in Ethiopia. However, Ethiopia believes that that through the enactment of a strict arms trade treaty without ambiguous language with indistinct or double meaning will insure that only nations can receive weapons and arms. We do believe that nations should still have the right to defend themselves and receive technological advancements on the weapons front.

Ethiopia firmly rejects allegations of the Arms Control Association made in July, 2012: “The only states joining the NRA in opposition to including small arms and light weapons are a few not so honorable arms exporters and importers–China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and Venezuela–who would rather be able to continue to sell and buy conventional weapons without common-sense global standards.” Because of the widespread use of small arms by non-state groups in many nations of Africa, Ethiopia and many other African nations have not yet signed the 2012 Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), which will go into force 24 December 2014.

This and future small arms control efforts should focus on stopping the flow of weapons to the illicit market instead of stopping the flow of buying and selling weapons between nations. We strongly believe that nations should focus on the prevention of terrorist and civilian groups receiving these weapons. The only way to do this is through international cooperation and support from all nations. Following the adoption of the ATT treaty we should form a DISEC task force consisting of international government officials to oversee the treaty’s implementation and to respond to concerns of Africa and other nations to make this treaty apply to the specific needs of African nations.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: France
Delegate Name: River Wahl
School: Forest Hills Central High School

There is an estimated total of 900 million firearms in the world today, only about a quarter of that is owned by law enforcement and the military. The problem is, where do all these leftover weapons end up? The number of unregulated and illicit small arms is very high, with some countries having thousands of weapons, including fully automatic assault weapons, circulating through gangs, crime rings, and the rest of the civilian population. Most countries have laws pertaining to the control and regulation of these weapons, but that doesn’t stop them from floating around illegally. In fact, some countries have a very serious problem with SALWS, such as Nigeria, and countries in Sub Saharan Africa, this is due to a poor police force and ineffective government, In addition to poor record keeping and regulation. The over circulation and abundance of these weapons leads to mass murders, robbery, and serious crimes, and is a massive problem as thousands of new weapons are churned out each day.

There have been many attempts to curb the trade and circulation of SALWS, with countries offering buy back programs, more effective regulations of guns, and more effective policing. However, these have only been marginally effective, as in many countries the number of small arms and light weapons is just too high, and more flow to and from borders every day. There has been some panels and a number of treaties regarding gun control in the U.N but none has made any landmarks among this issue.

France, A country with a very large number of guns, approximately 19,000,000, has a relatively low number of crimes and deaths each year due to SALWS. However, it has had recent problems with a growing number of assault and other weapons being cheaply acquired from eastern Europe and the Balkans. France will support any kind of resolution that will impair the ability of weapons to flow into French borders.

The French government can expect cooperation from almost all western countries, including countries within the EU. It may however, expect resistance from countries that gain from illegal arms trade.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Allie Pail
School: Williamston High School

The growing spread and use of small arms and light weapons (SALWs) has become a pressing problem in the international community. Not only do individuals have access to SALWs through illegal trade, but rebel and terrorist organizations do as well. Possession of these weapons paves the way for violence against civilians, government officials, and UN peacekeepers in the forms of murder, injury, rape, torture, and forced recruitment of young children. Monitoring the trade of illegal SALWs is very difficult, and therefore makes the job of stopping the spread of these weapons very difficult. Also, none of the large organizations illegally trading SALWs will agreeably end their business at their government’s request. However, Germany believes that building from the national level to the regional level, and finally to the global level could make the process easier for many nations.

Germany is very passionate about the topic of SALWs because of the protection of its citizens. Large stockpiles and possession of SALWs cause tension between different groups, and fright among innocent civilians. Germany sees the role of the government to protect its citizens, and will do so by doing its best to combat the illegal spread and trade of SALWs. The ammunition and SALWs of today will cause the fighting and violence of the future.

Beginning at the regional level, Germany believes that building tighter security is crucial in the process to end the illegal distribution of SALWs. Measures such as increasing the severity of laws/regulations against the trade of SALWs, appropriately stockpiling arms and ammunitions and ensuring that these weapons never find their way into the hands of illegal trade organizations, increasing border patrols to stop the importing or exporting of illegal trade, and educating/training the law enforcement sector of the government are necessary in order to end the illegal trade and possession of SALWs. Buyback programs should be continued at the local levels of SALW possession, but with larger, less agreeable organizations, stricter measures need to be taken. Increased fines and jail/prison time should be enacted for people the government can detain, and stricter programs for searching for and finding the SALWs should be put into place. As for the regional level, Germany believes that implementation of the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat, and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA) is necessary. The PoA promotes cooperation for border control and information exchange between neighboring nations, and will overall contribute to the goal of eradicating SALWs. At the global level, Germany emphasizes the role of the UN body and institutions to contribute to the fight against illicit SALWs. Germany also encourages other nations to join and participate actively in the Group of Interested States (coordinated by Germany), and also to report information to the UN arms register. Among its allies, Germany plans to have support from and give support to its regional neighbors and members of the European Union.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Ghana
Delegate Name: McKenna Swanson
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The International Instrument to Enable States to Identify and Trace classifies small arms and light weapons (SALW) as lethal weapons that have the ability to be carried by an individual and are designed to expel or launch a bullet or projectile. Worldwide estimates currently predicted that there are over 600 million SALWs in the world today. While small arms and light weapons are usually associated with violence and terrorism it is not the weapons themselves that cause the destruction but the people that wield them. The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs has stated that small arms and light weapons are a “worldwide scourge” due to their ability to inflict harm and cause chaos in a wide variety of environments. SALWs can inflict injury against civilians, UN peacekeepers, domestic armed forces, or government officials. These weapons allow or at least make it easier for gang warfare, organized crime, murder, rape, torture, and dismemberment.

The Republic of Ghana, stands strongly on the side of limiting the illegal distribution of small arms and light weapons. Ghana views small arms and light weapons as an issue of security and human rights because it allows terrorists to easily manipulate civilians and cause criminal activity. While Ghana has not experienced the large scale impact of small arms, 2014 reports show that 80% of crimes in Ghana are committed with “locally manufactured guns”. According to John Pokoo, Programme Co-coordinator of the Regional Small Arms and Light Weapons Training Programme at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Center,if people have weapons the tendency to use peaceful actions to solve problems decreases greatly. Therefore Ghana opposes the illegal distribution of small arms and light weapons and has signed the Geneva Declaration on Armed Violence and Development in 2006 which states that all distribution of weapons between countries should be documented and regulated in order to help maintain a state of peace.

Ghana encourages all nations not only to support but also to adopt the practices of regulating and recording the movements of small arms and light weapons throughout the world. We understand that not all countries share the same viewpoints but it is imperative that all nations work together to help eliminate the threat of the illegal distribution of weapons and to take it upon themselves to help protect the innocent from the destruction that can be caused if we do not take action to stop the spread. Ghana signed the Arms Trade Treaty and encourages all nations to do the same.

"Expert Warns of Looming Armed Conflict." Ghana HomePage, Resource for News, Sports, Facts, Opinions, Business and Entertainment. Ghanaweb, 20 May 2014. Web. 16 Nov. 2014.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Haiti
Delegate Name: Norah Fanning
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

It is apparent that small arms and light weapons are a major rising problem in Haiti. SALW are by far the most instrumental factor of high murder rates in the Caribbean, with approximately seventy percent of murders occurring through the use of SALW. These are the weapons that fuel armed violence in the country and overshadow the developments of Haiti and its Caribbean neighbors. There are tens of thousands of illegal firearms civilians and political and criminal gangs in Haiti that pose a major threat to efforts to restore peace.

It is also a sad reality that Haiti simply doesn’t possess the resources to attack this problem with the vigor it deserves and therefore relies heavily on peace-loving neighbors and nations like the United States to create a safer and less violent country for all its citizens. Without intervention, the situation could deteriorate further still.

There have recently been very positive efforts made to fight this phenomenon. Haiti is very encouraged by the inclusion of small arms and light weapons and ammunition in the Arms Trade Treaty. It is also pleased with the conclusions of the Fifth Biennial Meeting of States to Consider the Implementation of the Programme of Action on Small Arms, specifically the addition of amendments that would make arms-exporting countries be legally bound to report arms sales and transfers.

In the future, emphasis should be placed on strengthened international assistance and cooperation, border controls, the sharing of best practices. This will allow Haiti to gain access to the resources and procedures it needs to effectively combat this growing and dangerous problem.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Honduras
Delegate Name: Oliver Bragdon
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Honduras, being a Latin American country, and in close proximity to many countries plagued with drug and weapon smuggling, wishes to curb the use of small arms and light weapon use. Drug and small arms trafficking take a major toll of all citizens of Honduras. Instilling fear in everyone around them, light arms debilitate the economy by undermining the education of their youth. They destroy the bonds of our community by obliterating our families. The country supports the Arms Trade Treaty in hope for it to address the many problems caused by light weapons.

Our small nation of eight million people, in 2008 alone, experienced over five thousand deaths by firearms. This outrageous cascade of innocent loss cannot be allowed to continue. Honduras is not alone in its struggle: countless other nations are plagued by similar tragedies. Not only is Honduras struggling with our death rate, but we are simultaneously struggling with our growth rate as well. The misuse of the weapons, their improper allocation, and the fall of the weapons into the wrong hands allow small firearms to tear the families and communities of our nations apart.

My fellow committee members: we, as the keepers of peace, as the advocates of safe and thriving nation-states, must not and cannot watch idly as the proliferation of small weaponry haunts our nations and our peoples. By taking action against small weaponry we can improve quality-of-life for all citizens and increase educational opportunities for generations to come. I urge you to stand as we carry the torch of free people into the future.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: India
Delegate Name: Riley Robertson-DeGraaff
School: Vicksburg High School

SAWLs) is very important to the country of India. India has had many problems with gun regulation and lack of it. There have been multiple mass shootings including the Akshardham Temple Attack in which 33 people were killed and 80 others wounded, the Chittisinghpura massacre in which 36 people were killed, the 2002 Qasim Nagar massacre in which 29 people were killed including 13 women and a child, and many other mass shootings.

There are over 6 million legally registered guns in India and though illegally acquired guns cannot be counted there are an estimated 33 million illegal firearms. India believes that there should be a better system for detecting and eliminating the spread of illegal SAWLs throughout all nations.

There are many laws in India restricting how many firearms are allowed to be distributed and who is allowed to own firearms. In recent years (2008-2014) there have been between 6 thousand and over 12 thousand deaths due to firearms per year. Most of these deaths are homicide and due to gun violence. In an effort to lower these numbers India proposes more cooperation between nations to eliminate black markets and illegally imported and exported from each country.

By following and respecting the laws on gun control in other countries and working together to stop the illegal arms dealing nations can improve gun safety around the world.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Indonesia
Delegate Name: Matthew Wolfgram
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

We, the country of Indonesia, believe that the smuggling and illicit trafficking of Small arms/light weapons poses a significant threat to territorial integrity and sovereignty. In the past, non-state actors have gained political leverage in our country by taking advantage of these illicit activities, fostering separatist movements, and encouraging criminal activity. To prevent this for us and other countries in the future, we wish to collaborate with the United Nations and surrounding states to reduce the circulation of illicit SALW. Any lack of concentration to reduce the circulation of SALW could be detrimental to the well-being of our country, and other members of the UN, as uncontrolled spread of SALW could lead to political unrest, slowing diplomatic and governmental procedures around the world.

In previous years, our country has strengthened bilateral and regional communication with the UNODA (UN office for disarmament affairs) to combat the spread of small arms/light weapons. Additionally, we met with international authorities of states such as Cambodia, The Philippines, Myanmar, Thailand, Brunel Darussalam, Vietnam, Japan, and Lao PDR to discuss the issue. It was concluded that a collective effort must be taken to slow, and eventually stop the spread of SALW. Shortly after, we formed a joint investigation with the aforementioned countries to pursue and interrogate parties involved with the smuggling of SALW. Legislations were also passed within our nation to regulate the use of illegal SALW.

As stated previously, our country has gone to great lengths to promote illicit distribution of SALW. The need to regulate the use of these weapons should be recognized by other countries, as the fight to ban illegal SALW must be an international one. Indonesia alone cannot control SALW, and would like to see other countries adopt legislations to regulate small arms and light weapons, so to improve international

security and stability.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Iran
Delegate Name: Kimberly Yang
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

In the name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful- all praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Universe and may peace and blessing be upon our master and Prophet Muhammad (Peace be with him) and his pure household, his noble companions, and all the messengers.

The Arms Trade Treaty, established on the 2nd of April, in the year of 2013, states to prevent the increase or spread of small arms and light weapons across the globe, by enforcing strict and protective measures through the means of cataloging each and every weapon issued within the state. The Islamic State of Iran is fully aware of The Arms Trade Treaty’s text, which “[recognizes] the security, social, economic, and humanitarian consequences of the illicit and unregulated trade in conventional arms” and, to list a few, also “[recognizes] the legitimate political, security, economic and commercial interests of States in the international trade in conventional arms.” The cost of these multifarious weapons that hinder peace and security within nations is indeed deathly high, and the Islamic State of Iran deeply expresses its gratitude for the other sovereign nations that have placed their signatures of profound high status onto the Treaty, eliminating such distress within our world.

However, the Islamic State of Iran, under the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful- strongly condemns these signatories. My fellow contemporaries- this Treaty is flawed, as it fails to discern the blatant legal flaws and loopholes. The Treaty’s hamartia is so obvious to the naked eye as it is crucial- the text fails to incorporate the prohibition of the transfer of conventional arms to aggressors and foreign occupiers, which is so flagrantly stated in the very preamble of the Arms Trade Treaty. Under no circumstance does the The Islamic Republic of Iran have any representation nor participation within the trade of such malicious small arms and light weapons to any institutionalized unions of terrorism. The Islamic Republic of Iran will further deny any skepticism within the general assembly- Under the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful- The Islamic Republic of Iran does not facilitate within small arm and light weaponry trafficking.

World leaders- the world is laden with fear- fear of war with hostile regional confrontations. Fear of deadly conflicts- especially the institutionalization of violence and extremism. As a consequence to this awful deed that society has forsaken us with, there should be a complete annihilation of the Treaty, as it was not applicable to the international movement of conventional arms by, or on behalf of, the State party’s use. These weapons have been amassed to commit awful crimes of aggression and occupation, causing overwhelming human loss. The Treaty should incorporate better articulated amendments with the inherent right of the State to acquire, produce, export, import, and transfer these weapons for the sake of internal security. If all nations had the right to handle their own commerce of weapons, it would promote stability within the State. The Islamic State of Iran will not abuse this right if such resolution is passed, as Iran has no affiliation whatsoever with any third-party violence groups known to cause aggression and terror that besets this world today.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Iraq
Delegate Name: Connor Buhl
School: Fishers High School

The Republic of Iraq has long history with combating the underground trade of small arms and light weapons. Due to an inability to track the trade of said weapons has brought about large amounts of terrorism and violence in the afflicted regions. By combating illegal spread of weapons we can cut down on both violence and more importantly stop international terrorist groups in their tracks. While Iraq believes that stopping illegal and underground arms spreading must be stopped, we also believe that citizens do have a right to them. Iraq firmly stands by the decision to allow citizens to defend themselves. Stopping illegal weapons trading, while important and necessary, is a job that will never be completely finished. Even if we devoted all of our resources to a complete stop SALWs from spreading, criminals and terrorists would still cause violence. Therefore, we believe that citizens should be allowed to keep certain SALWs so that they will always be able to defend themselves against violence. In Iraq there are 9,750,000 guns in civilian use. Also in Iraq, we have many Sunni tribes that have the right to defend themselves. People must always have the right to defend themselves from danger both foreign and internal.

Currently the Republic of Iraq has done as much as possible to restrict weapons trade. We have regulated the civilian use of firearms by requiring registration for all small arms and light weapons. As a member of the League of Arab States we have adopted the Arab Model Law on Weapons, Ammunitions, Explosives and Hazardous Material and have stood by it since 2002. All trade regarding any firearms or explosives of any type is prohibited without a license in Iraq. We have also forbidden non-governmental manufacturers from manufacturing firearms. By doing so homicide rates have dropped significantly. Even so, criminals and terrorist groups still exist. To combat them action still needs to be taken by not just a single country, but by all United Nations member states.

The Republic of Iraq would be in favor of any solutions to this problem that would stop the illegal and underground spread of illegal firearms while maintaining the rights of citizens. We encourage other nations to follow the example set by the League of Arab States and abolish any non-governmental firearm manufacturing. Gun ownership should not be guaranteed by law, but it should also not be forbidden. An amenable solution to almost all nations would be to require registration of firearms and other possible explosives. Limiting surplus to civilians would also serve to halt the use of military equipment by criminals and terrorists. Citizens who could pose a possible threat to others as either a criminal or terrorist must be denied access to any SALWs. Nations that take these steps will move towards cutting down homicide and terrorism, as well as guaranteeing safety for as many citizens as possible.

Works Cited

http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/iraq

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Israel
Delegate Name: Zach Brodkey
School: Forest Hills Central High School

If the civilized nations of the world want to ensure the safety of our people for generations to come, we must address one of the most pertinent problems of our era: the unwieldy trade of various illegal weapons that threatens the security of all nations. Throughout the free world, nations have worked very hard to implement strategies for having legal and transparent trade of weapons. Nevertheless, underneath the veil of the legal trade there is a world of black markets and corruption that threatens the safety of all of these nations’ inhabitants, which must be dealt with. In Israel, we see it more than many other nations do, as we are surrounded by it. Many of the Arab states that surround us lack control of their population and its militancy. In the Palestinian lands, Lebanon, and Syria we see (respectively) Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Islamic State wielding arms that they, by most standards of decency in trade, should not be able to gain access to in the first place. Especially with Hezbollah and Hamas, there is an extreme direct threat to the state of Israel, as arms smuggling, stockpiling, and usage around our borders and against our civilians is rampant and has been since these organizations’ creation.

Being such a prominent issue, the trade has been brought up in the United Nations as a large issue many times before, as goes without saying; however, Israel strives exceptionally to bring the issue to the forefront, as we are one of the nations that receives the most direct threat from it. There have been several UN resolutions pertaining to this matter, which Israel has upheld with conviction. However, it will take a stronger and broader effort and cooperation than just official statements of action to end a problem that is so widespread and prosperous in unchecked populations.

Israel will no longer support broad statements where nations that will not fully cooperate can simply sign on without stipulations: we suggest implementation on a large and strictly enforced scale. The only way to end the problem of illegal light arms trade is to force the nations that do not have a grasp on their populations’ illegal activities to cooperate thoroughly or else they will receive harsh consequences. Many of our neighbors, specifically, must be coerced into, or rewarded for cooperation, or else they have no incentive to actually coincide with the UN regulations. Therefore, Israel proposes that all nations receive a mandatory code for weapons checks at all borders in order to achieve complete eradication of smuggling, coupled with a crack-down on illegal weapons inside the nations. The domestic control of illegal weapons can be enforced by keeping complete track of weapons marking, tracing, and most of all: record-keeping. Through these processes, nations can rid themselves of illegal weapons and prevent no more from entering or exiting their nation; therefore rendering illegal weapons ideally unavailable. However, many nations will not care enough to cooperate with these systematic implementations, and therefore as a third part of the plan, we propose that the UN carry out strict and thorough sting operation investigations on nations who are suspected of not cooperating, and if nations are found to be un-cooperative, they shall receive a punishment which could include economic sanctions, monetary penalties, UN membership penalties, or if the offense is drastic enough: UN actions of force within the nation.

Being the manner of issue that it is, we expect that all good-natured and civilized peoples will join us in our cause. However, we are prepared and are expecting much pushback, namely from countries such as Syria, Iran, and Pakistan. However, these countries’ refusal to cooperate is complete conjecture, and they are by no means condemned; moreover, we view that even larger problems with this deal would come from Lebanon and with our own Palestinian territories, as they are run by organizations that are generally considered militant and therefore will not be pleased with the idea of weapon control and investigation.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Italy
Delegate Name: Rose Rumery
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

An undeniable threat is present throughout the world with the global spread of small arms and light weapons. Also known as SAWLs, small arms and light weapons act as a fuel for conflict and combat everywhere. The access to this light weaponry is high because they are cheap, easily transportable, and can be handled by untrained citizens thus increasing their use. Those qualities all contribute to the escalating dangers brought on by SAWLs, and make it clear that although they are not as lethal as heavier weaponry, they still put the World in a dire situation. It is estimated that around 90% of casualties in recent wars were caused by small arms, but even disregarding statistics, the mere existence of global access to SAWLs stimulates a terror and unease that if not counteracted, will amplify death related conflict around the world.

As a nation, Italy holds a vacillating opinion in regards to combating the spread of small arms and light weapons. The matter at hand and its consequences are fully recognized by the Italian Republic, however, the necessity of an immediate solution is questionable. Italy has deemed that the implementation of a treaty to combat the spread of small arms and light weapons as non-essential, but with the current conflict in the Middle East, ideals are being re-thought. With the recent accumulation of conventional military devices spreading globally and contributing to regional conflicts, organized crimes, and terrorism, an inevitable threat has dawned upon all nations. The count of innocent people that are being affected by those with access to lethal weapons today and every day is far too high, and disarmament would in fact improve the future of our world as a whole.

Europe has already taken a united stance in this issue and strategized objectives to raise a resolution. It is necessary to take action in the combat of the global spread of SAWLs, support disarmament, and help solve problems caused by the excessive and illicit accumulation of SAWLs. Italy is well aware of the present threats in society due to the access to small arms and light weapons. It has proved successful for Italy to limit imports and exports with transfer control law. The possession of small arms and light weapons in Italy is prohibited by law, unless permission is granted by special authority. These policies have served as safe and moderate solutions to the question of SAWLs, and Italy encourages other nations to open their eyes to the perilous state of the globe and to join the fight against illicit trade of small arms and light weapons.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Jordan
Delegate Name: Stephanie Tkaczyk
School: Williamston High School

The greatest issue that small arms and light weapons (SALWs) pose to the globe is their ability to cause tension and insecurity between groups and individuals in separate countries. The harmful incidences made easier by international groups possessing SALWs in large amounts include: murder, rape, torture, dismemberment, and recruitment of child soldiers. Currently there are about 600 million SALWs circulating the globe and there is not much being done to stop their increasing presence in more and more nations every year. It is hard to pinpoint the exact locations of these SALWs as well because common groups that use these types of weapons, like rebel factions and terrorist groups, have been efficient at remaining out of the public eye.

Jordan is passionate about dealing with the prevention and monitoring of SALWs because Jordan is in a location where ignoring the issue could lead to serious problems with neighboring countries. The country of Jordan is located right in between Iraq and Israel; this also catches Jordan in the crossroads of what the Christians, Jews, and Muslims call the Holy Land. This leaves Jordan right in the middle of the quarrels and issues happening with the terrorist groups and rebels of these nearby nations. Even though Jordan, along with Egypt, is one of the only two countries to have made peace with Israel, it still is a risk for Jordan to be around all of the SALWs that are likely to be circulating around its country’s borders.

Jordan believes that the issue would best be handled by continuing and increasing the use of buyback programs. These programs would pertain to the exchanging of these illicit weapons and ammunition for food, medicine, farming equipment and other items such as these. These programs should be increased once we improve to better monitoring of the SALWs. To improve the monitoring of these weapons Jordan will offer any resources and information it can to aid the programs being put into effect. Jordan also expects to be aided in these prevention efforts by the Egypt who can relate to Jordan’s perspective on the issue and the United States who has always been an ally to Jordan.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Kazakhstan
Delegate Name: Jack Klein
School: Kalamazoo Central High School

The Republic of Kazakhstan would like to state its support of the idea to combat the spread of small arms and light weapons. Not only is the trafficking of these weapons dangerous to the public, but allows small arms and light weapons (SALW) to fall into the hands of terrorist and extremist organizations.

While the issue of the spread of small arms and light weapons is still prominent in Kazakhstan and many other Central Asian countries, the Republic of Kazakhstan has taken the steps necessary to begin to exterminate this issue. In 2010, Kazakhstan hosted a seminar in the capital city of Astana on combating illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons (SALW). During this seminar, which included Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, the solution to improve import and export controls and enhancing border security was suggested. From 2006 to 2010, illicit weapon manufacturing increased more than threefold in the Republic of Kazakhstan . In 2008, the Ministry of Defence acknowledged that Kazakhstan’s armed forces remained one of the larger sources of the spread of illegal weapons.

The Republic of Kazakhstan strongly believes that with the guidance and help from the United Nations, it can continue on a path to regulate and eventually end most of the small arms and light weapons trade in Kazakhstan. With these regulations, the Republic of Kazakhstan believes the safety of it’s people can continue to grow stronger, and the underground market to spread these small arms and light weapons can be weakened, if not completely eliminated

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Kuwait
Delegate Name: Sydney Walters
School: Mattawan High School

Kuwait won its independence in 1961 from Britain, and was attacked in 1990 by Iraq. The UN and the United States took it in their power to create a ground assault and liberated Kuwait in four days. Kuwait’s land mass is near the size of New Jersey, and is surrounded by Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Small arms number around 630,000 in Kuwait just for civilian guns. Around 25 guns are owned for every 100 people in the country (both legal and illegal). In comparison to other countries, Kuwait is 71st out of 178. The government owns around 30,000 firearms in Kuwait, and another 8,358 in police departments. Per 100,000 people, Kuwait has an annual rate of .48 for homicide. The annual value of the small arms and ammunition exported from Kuwait is around $73,584 (in US money). The annual value of imports in Kuwait is around $15,101,201. Kuwait’s law for small arms is that the people don’t necessarily always have the right to private gun ownership.

Small arms is a big problem in Kuwait. While not necessarily legal for everyone to own a small arm or a private gun, many people have one anyways. In 2009, more than 270,000 small arms were sold to Kuwaiti’s from Canada alone. Poorly supervised small arms deals threaten development and create conflict that harms the idea of peace in the country. Humanitarian and peace building efforts are all at risk with the sales of small arms. More than a half a million people die each year due to small arm incidents, yet not much is being done about it.

To help combat these weapons from creating more harm than necessary, Kuwait has an export license known as the Single Individual Export License. This license covers shipments of special weapons approved and specified by the government. With the United Nations, Kuwait and several other countries sat down in July of 2012 to solve the problem of small arms. Many were disappointed that in previous meetings no solution was solidified and helpful enough, while others argue that a “perfect piece of paper will not save lives”. Mansour Ayyad Sh A Alotaibi, speaker on behalf of the Arab Group of States, said that the solution should focus on more than just the treaty’s efforts, but on finding ways to solidify the paper enough so that there are no loopholes. He also stated that the Group wouldn’t allow any paper that didn’t guarantee States the right to defend themselves, or allow the treaty as an excuse to interfere in the internal affairs of states. A treaty was then created and signed by 122 states and ratified by 54. This treaty recognized things such as “the inherent right of all states to the individual self-defense” and “the settlement of international disputes by peaceful means in such a manner that international peace and security, and justice, are not endangered”. Kuwait, having signed it, is very happy with all of the terms, as has agreed to them all.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Liberia
Delegate Name: Jovany Flores
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

The spread of small arms and light weapons has been an exponentially growing issue on an international scale. There are events in which weapons of such sort have been used in ludicrous manners. Places like the United Kingdom and Western Australia tend to have fewer issues concerning small arms and light weapons because they either restrict weapons to civilians or have strict policies against them. In other nations with more lenient control over those materials are often the countries with safety issues and problems with homicide. Currently, it has become a major issue in being able to control the spreading of light weapons in the countries that have allowed them to be in civilian hands thus far.

Liberia has a restrictive weapon policy. No civilians can posses any firearm or ammunition. Therefore, Liberia shows very low numbers of homicides due from small arms and/or weapons. Liberia frowns upon the civilian use of weaponry, because of the fact that in giving humans that amount of power usually leads to catastrophic events.

Liberia proposes the idea to create an international treaty in order to reduce or eliminate civilian use of small arms and light weapons. The agreement would require all countries, which ratify the treaty, to enforce the policy of creating stricter policies towards the small arms and/or prohibit them from civilian use. In doing so, many conflicts, like civil wars, can avoid higher levels murder or injury. All nations individually can potentially become more peaceful as a whole.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Libya
Delegate Name: Chance Elliot
School: Grand Blanc High School

Small arms and light weapons (SALWs) present a large issue in today’s world. SALWs cause around 200,000 deaths outside of modern conflict zones. The increase in SALWs are most often associated with the increase in crime, death, and terrorist actions. This is because of their nature as a weapon system, they are portable, easy to conceal, cheap, and are low maintenance. Illicit trafficking of SALWs are a big business, approximately there are 639 million firearms in circulation around the world, 59% of which are acquired illegally by civilians. SALWs are the weapons of choice for terrorists groups as well as many other forms of violence, such as homicides. SALWs cause large amounts of damage among civilians in and outside of today’s modern conflicts and must be dealt with on a global scale.

The state of Libya has taken certain measures to combat the challenge of SALWs. We have signed the Arms Trade Treaty which will enter into force on December 24, 2014. Also we have been faced with multiple terrorist groups that have plagued our state. One of which, Ansar al-Sharia came into being because of SALWs during the Libyan Civil War. The movement of SALWs have caused the borders around the state to become destabilized and increased violence in the Sahel region of Africa.

Our state wishes to eradicate the illicit trade of SALWs in all aspects. We have been the first country in North Africa to sign the Arms Trade Treaty and would like Other nations to follow in accepting this treaty in order for it to become an effective force in combating SALWs. The cooperation of other nations as well as the compliance to the articles of the treaty is crucial in the eradication of illicit SALWs trade.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Lithuania
Delegate Name: Dustin Hunter
School: Kalamazoo Central High School

The tracking of SALWs is very important to Lithuania. Lithuania thinks that action to eradicate illegal trade's channels is needed. It is therefore essential to develop common marking standards as well as to agree on common procedures – both at the level of national legislation and international cooperation – to track small arms and light weapons or ammunition from their origin to the last identified user.

Lithuania wants to help make an international data base that all SALWs will have their make and model along with the cereal number added to the data base. This way it will be hard to smuggle SALWs in and out of countries.

Lithuania is emphasizing countries going out and getting in contact with arm distributors and finding a good way to track the number on the guns going in and out of the country. Lithuania thinks that if other countries get involved it will be been official to all.

Lithuania strongly emphasizes that the United Nations gets involved in international data base to help put an end to SALWs trading in all countries. Whether it is with money or with ideas from other countries. Lithuania believes that with the help of the United Nations it can stop if not all then most of the SALWs trading going on in just a matter of a few years. Also if other countries join the data base Lithuania thinks that sooner then latter the trading of SALWs will come to a stop.

Lithuania believes that this is a step in the right direction and with the help of others this data base will be a success

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Luxembourg
Delegate Name: Tanvi Sharma
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

Luxembourg understands that dealing with the international small arms and light weapons trade is critical for safety of people around the world. Small arms and light weapons can be used to violate human rights, and can have especially negative effects on the world’s women and children. We believe that tracking the distribution of these weapons is essential, and that cooperation between states that border each other, as well as between regions, is a crucial step that must be taken. In addition, networks for sharing information would allow these weapons to be much more easily tracked.

There are many efforts that have already been made to reduce the trade of small arms and light weapons, but these efforts can only be effective if the international body allows them to be. Luxembourg believes that states that have not yet ratified treaties dealing with this issue should attempt to do so as quickly as possible. One such treaty is the Arms Trade Treaty, which erases loopholes, help to prevent small arms and light weapons from being used to violate human rights, and assist nations in enforcing laws on the international weapons trade. Another important effort that has been made and should be implemented internationally is the Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons, which takes measures to prevent and eradicate the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons. Luxembourg also believes it important for states on which weapons embargoes have been placed by the Security Council to adhere to these embargoes. This acceptance of already existing measures to prevent the spread of small arms and light weapons would greatly increase global civilian safety.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Morocco
Delegate Name: Conor Streng
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs) is a major problem in the world. SALWs can be easily stored and carried making them hard to find. There are an estimated 600 million circulating around the globe but unfortunately this isn’t a sure fact because not all countries share information about SALW use in their country. Many terrorist and rebel groups carry them and because of the group’s small size it makes it easy to slip under the radar. Not to mention the number of smuggling operations, illicit manufacturing, police/military stockpiles and theft that happen worldwide. All this adds up to an unknown amount of SALWs. These weapons help with many wide ranging crimes including but not limited to murder, torture, rape and dismemberment.

SALWs have fueled crime and terrorism throughout the Kingdom of Morocco. Therefore, the Kingdom of Morocco supports taking SALWs out of circulation. We think stronger actions need to be taken to stop the spread of these deadly weapons. To do this, the Kingdom of Morocco needs international assistance. This assistance would also help to stop human and drug trafficking, organized crime and terrorism which all have a direct correlation with the spread of SALWs.

We would like to emphasize that SALWs should bear serial numbers which would help with data entries and record-keeping. Databases should be available at all borders and brought to the attention of security forces as well. We should also start an information sharing policy concerning the production, distribution and confiscation of SALWs. This would help to trace them from one country to the next and therefore to help find the distributors. Laws should be put into place to help crack down on smugglers and ban manufacturers from selling them to corporations. Manufactures should only be allowed to sell to governments that way the UN would have some jurisdiction because of their powers over governments.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: New Zealand
Delegate Name: Sam Nelson
School: Vicksburg High School

The spread of SALW’s and combating them is a international hazard for people everywhere, and the tracking of these weapons is very important to the country of New Zealand, although weapon traders have not yet sprung up in the Oceana region, these countries are still relatively weak to the shockwaves that small arms violence can and will bring.

The country of New Zealand has not had very many problems with small arms and light weapons in our country. New Zealand has a group of people who own said weapons and are responsible with them. We have had minimal firearm related crimes, New Zealand believes that countries should track the purchase of small arms and light weapons to track who purchases them, the main problem of the issue is that small arms are very hard to track purchases of these weapons, and also believes that cooperation between all nations is the best way to halt the spread of illegal small arms and light weapons the country of new Zealand believes that other countries should follow its example toward the combat of small arms and light weapons.

The country of New Zealand has limitations and regulations on firearms and has heavily limited civilian access to military grade weapons used for wartime purposes and other heavy weapons and automatic weapons the country of new Zealand thinks that the spread of small arms and light weapons are a danger to public safety and a threat to global security and that the spread of light weapons and small arms should be stopped as soon as possible

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Nigeria
Delegate Name: Rachel Westrick
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The illicit manufacturing and trade of small arms and light weapons (SAWLs), along with the tension and violence that develops from their presence, creates a chaos and danger for civilians and government officials alike. Approximately 600 million SALWs are currently in circulation around the globe, and as a result, every year at least 500,000 people die and millions more harmed by armed violence and conflict. It is very difficult to monitor and prevent the spread of SALWs due to unlicensed and illegal sources and the underground nature of international arms trade. However, a strong effort is being made by the UN to combat these illicit activities. The Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), which will enter into force on 24 December 2014, is an agreement that establishes standards for the international trade of conventional weapons (including SAWLs) and seeks to end the illegal arms trade. With the support and review of all States, come December 24, the ATT will begin put an end to dangerous activities caused by SAWLs.

The Federal Republic of Nigeria asserts the need for a strong Arms Trade Treaty to protect the nation and the rest of the world from the deadly spread of SAWLs. There are an estimated seven to ten million illicit small arms and light weapons in West Africa, and almost one to three million in Nigeria alone, with an estimated 80 percent of all weapons in civilian possession obtained illegally. Nigeria in particular has been experiencing SAWL related problems with the rise of terrorist organization Boko Haram and other small armed groups along the Niger Delta. The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) is an armed militant group that attacks the oil installations among the ports. Using only small arms, the MEND and other small groups have managed to cut around 20 percent of the country’s daily exports of 2.5 million barrels, claiming almost 1,000 lives every year in the process. Another issue is the Boko Haram, a militant Islamic terror organization based in northeast Nigeria. Boko Haram is responsible for many of the catastrophes in Nigeria and bordering countries, including the schoolgirl kidnapping in Chibok and the suicide bombings on the UN headquarters in Abuja on April 14 2014. Although Nigeria has tried to put an end to the violence from armed groups, if the problem of the spread of SAWLs is not fully addressed, then militant and terrorist groups like MEND and Boko Haram will not be stopped, and Nigeria, along with the rest of West Africa, could have their economy and society set far back beyond repair.

As the first African nation to ratify the ATT and the fourth nation worldwide, Nigeria encourages all other States to follow suit and to adhere very closely to the Treaty’s articles and control. Without the commitment of every State, the treaty cannot advance and the spread of SAWLs cannot be stopped. While Nigeria is in compliance with the treaty, it is important to meet the demands of other countries to make the treaty’s reach more universal. A concern that needs to be addressed to improve the ATT would be to ban arms and transfers to non-State entities, as it would be hard to regulate trade and misuse of SAWLs in these regions. However, Nigeria strongly believes that any measures taken through the ATT should not prevent States from aiding each other for the sake of eliminating dangerous militant groups. The more UN fights with the violence from armed groups directly, the easier it will to prevent the spread of SAWLs and to ensure global peace and security. By signing, ratifying, and attempting to improve the Arms Trade Treaty, Nigeria has taken initiative in establishing strict control on the illicit international trade in conventional arms and light weapons. We hope other States will do the same.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Norway
Delegate Name: Jacob Laymon
School: Kalamazoo Central High School

As the council of norway, we believe that the spread of small arms and light weapons are a concern to the citizens of Norway and neighboring countries. These small arms are a threat to all people who live in, around or visit Norway. These weapons are easily obtained by anyone with enough money to purchase such weapons. The council of Norway feels that removing small arms from the public will only cause more conflicts. To contain the situation the council of Norway suggests that we remove the weapons from the public’s hand.

As the council of Norway we are concerned with the safety of our citizens. For that reason we suggests that our citizens be rewarded for turning in their small arms and light weapons. we believe that this will not only make people want to turn in their weapons to the government but they will do so without hesitation. After a prolonged period of time we will have most of the small arms and light weapons out of circulation.

Being well educated on this topic, the council of Norway believes that trough education and advocacy we can convince people that it is safer without small arms and light weapons. We believe that if we educate our citizens they will at least know that these weapons are bad for everyone and they will stop pointing them at people because they want something that someone else has. We believe that this will work because they know the effects that the weapons have on other peoples lives.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Oman
Delegate Name: Joshua Haugen
School: Mattawan High School

The nation of Oman fully recognizes the threat illicitly traded SALWs present to the world. They undisputably inflame and prolong conflicts, and supply terrorists with the ability to pose a direct threat to peace and security of states. With hundreds of millions of SALWs roaming the world, prudent, swift and just action is needed if we ever seek to control this scourge that faces us all. Knowing this, the nation of Oman also realizes that a problem with national sovereignty exists, and so does one with the privilege of civilians to possess guns. This market for SALWs is lucrative. The underground nature of it extends through and beyond the borders of nations. The nation of Oman believes respecting this, and sovereignty of nations where this extends to, is of the utmost importance. The nation of Oman also sees the ability of civilians to own and use guns for defense and other purposes ought to be respected. Various people, worldwide, use guns for numerous reasons; protecting the ability of those who use it for good is also important the the nation of Oman. Finding a balance between this, sovereignty and fighting the illicit trade of these weapons is the goal for Oman, and we hope to accomplish this through effective collaboration.

The nation of Oman is no stranger to SALWs. Oman permits the usage of weapons with licenses, and regularly keeps tabs on the markets within our country for these weapons. Having limited requirements for the licenses for weapons allows only citizens with a good history to have the ability to purchase weapons, as it should be. Oman believes this is the most effective and just way to handle guns in our country, and it has given us an abundance of peace within our nation. Gun deaths in Oman are in the teens, and have been for numerous years1. The nation of Oman has always seen to that international agreements on combating SALWs trade must respect the citizens who have a legitimate purpose for having a weapon, as our nation has done. Such is why Oman has supported just treaties including The United Nations Firearms Protocol, but refused to sign unjust treaties such as The United Nations Arms Trade Treaty and the The Geneva Declaration on Armed Violence and Development. The nation of Oman believes these actions act for the betterment of all, and having hesitations with the ramifications of overly-broad treaties is important.

No nation here wants another annual 500,000 dead at the hands of those with SALWs. Such is why improving the collection of information from various countries is key to ending this scourge. The nation of Oman sees this as the center of the issue facing us. If the U.N. has the ability to see the data, then we all have the ability to further address the issue with these weapons, as we will be able to see where they reign most strong. Advocacy efforts and education won’t bring a solution to this problem in the slightest. Data collection from countries ought to be this committee’s first step. Once this is accomplished in a respectful and sound method, the nation of Oman believes we can make significant progress with combating this scourge, as the U.N. will be able to locate the most afflicted areas of the illict SALWs trade. The nation of Oman hope this, coupled with other solutions, and a balance with sovereignty of nations and people, will be able to make this committee all the more effective.

1. UNODC. 2013. ‘Homicide in 207 Countries – Oman.’ Global Study on Homicide 2011: Trends, Context, Data; Statistical Annex (with online datasets). Vienna: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. 26 June.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Pakistan
Delegate Name: Karl Hillenbrand
School: Fishers High School

Pakistan strongly believes that more time and effort should be put into combating small arms trade and light weapons, because especially in the middle eastern region is this a major issue.

The post Second World War period has seen an increase in usage of small arms. The frequent usage of these sources of human destruction has resulted in numerous causalities. Unlike weapons of Mass Destruction, these weapons are used in internal or low-intensity conflicts and are responsible for larger numbers of casualties across the world.

Specifically in Pakistan the main measures that Pakistan would be interested countries to lock down private production of small arms like Pakistan has done in our own country. Pakistan believes that the main way that arms are even brought into the market is by non-government producers and traders of small arms and light weapons. This is the main reason why small arms and light weapons and the weapon of choice for terror groups, is because of the amount and accessibility of the weapons. Pakistan keeps firm control over all government owned and run production of small arms and is working to fix the issue of pockets of private production and sale of weapons that is unregulated and or unmonitored.

Pakistan believes that programs such as buyback programs or exchange programs are important in creating a first step to limiting weapons and is mutually beneficial for all parties involved. Although in global terms it is up to individual governments to be responsible for local purchases and trades. In Pakistan we deal with groups such as Darra that cannot be taxed or regulated on the weapons that they produce so Pakistan monitors their activity and the weapons they sell so that we have a grasp on what weapons are being sold to specific groups. For countries that have larger operations where arms are being produced by companies or even the government then to limit those trade deals could potentially be solved by embargos. As we have seen in Ukraine the trade restrictions on Russia is hurting the economy and limiting its ability to expand outside of Ukraine and Russia pushing it to reconsider the advancements into Ukraine.

Pakistan also recognizes that large scale operations that are spread out throughout a country is extremely hard to combat and that if a country is limited in its capacity to fight the trade of small arms than Pakistan would recommend that the county appeal for help to help limit the trading of arms into other countries.

Works Cited

"South Asia: Pakistan." Central Intelligence Agency. Central Intelligence Agency, n.d. Web. 13 Nov. 2014.

V.paul, Jipson. "Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons in Pakistan." Articlesbase.com. Articlesbase.com, 30 Jan. 2009. Web. 13 Nov. 2014.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Russia
Delegate Name: Hunter Barnes
School: Mattawan High School

It is, indeed, excruciating to keep track of small arms. From the common household hunting rifle, to military grade explosives, small arms are a tricky subject that can be argued in many different ways. Russia thinks this committee needs focus on reform and common structure for measures of tracking small arms at each corner of the globe. However, this cannot be resolved in one swoop of this committee, this fact must be realized.

Russia, as a large producer and exporter of SALWs is doing its very best to uphold a common structure of tracking and policy with these weapons. In the recent years Russia has put laws into effect that regulate these SALWs, and we continue to do so. This is great and we encourage this to be done in all nations, but it isn’t quite effective on an international level.

This committee must focus on how we can make a standardised world wide system for nations to follow in order to help stop problems with small arms and light weapons. In this, existing efforts to share information with the international community will come very simply and effortlessly. The problem is what the standard system would be, and how it would be upheld.

Furthermore, the existing efforts to take SALWs out of circulation is blatantly weak. There are no really ground breaking ways this has been done and it’s time to find one. The Russian Federation would suggest that there are to be strict policing of the sales of weapons, and the ability to bear weapons. Bearing arms should require permits on hand at all times. This is something already implemented in the U.S. but not many other states have followed suit.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Rwanda
Delegate Name: Joseph Murphy
School: Vicksburg High School

The country of Rwandan believes that light arms are a serious problem they are cheap and easy to make with the added benefit of being easy to transport and ship it is estimated that there are currently 500 million small arms in circulation around the world. Rwandan being in Africa which is at the best of times only a mild peace has suffered man deaths of our citizens by small arms during the genocide to which the countries leaders of course deeply lament small arms were used to kill thousands of people as such we believe in the control of small arms.

Rwanda believes in how the U.N SALW The United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects is the primary international framework for addressing trafficking, proliferation and misuse of SALW.

The Rwandan goverment has also taken steps to help track and insure its small arms are not misused, Over 1300 firearms have been marked by Rwanda National Police to-date using the MC 2000 electronic marking machine donated to the Government by RECSA. The Defense Forces are yet to start the marking exercise with equipment also provided by the Secretariat.

The death toll from small arms dwarfs that of all other weapons systems – and in most years greatly exceeds the toll of the atomic bombs that devastated Hiroshima and Nagasaki. with this said Rwanda would like all nations to try and help regulate and control small arms.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Saudi Arabia
Delegate Name: Zoe Bair
School: East Grand Rapids High School

Saudi Arabia believes that the United Nation should take a more active role to stop the trade of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW). While current strategies are working, Saudi Arabia wishes to find a more productive way to reduce the proliferation of illicit weapons. The current tactics being used include the buyback program in which weapons are bought in exchange for food, medicine or farming equipment. The United Nations is also trying to stop the sale of SALW’s to unauthorized individuals. Another strategy used to slow the spread of weapons is the use of education groups like International Action Network on Small Arms (IANSA). When everyday civilians have access to firearms, citizens lives are endangered. Saudi Arabia holds that the best method for stopping the proliferation of weapons is through the seizure program. The United Nations should use peacekeeping units for this strategy. “Based on Customs Department statistics, the rate of weapons seizure increased 84 percent to reach 3,055 pieces of arms and ammunition this year compared to 1,657 last year.” (1)

Saudi Arabia is taking action to disarm other parts of the Middle East, especially the Palestinian Resistance movements. The rights to private gun ownership is not guaranteed by law. To be able to purchase firearms, citizens of Saudi Arabia must obtain a license. To get the license they must be a citizen, have a valid medical certificate from a psychologist, and have a legitimate reason for wanting to own a weapon. Currently, there are an estimated six million guns owned by civilians in Saudi Arabia. However, on an international ranking, they manufacture a small number of firearms annually. Authorities have weapon seizure programs in order to take illicit weapons out of the circulation. Saudi Arabia believes that this is an effective way to prevent weapons from falling into the wrong hands.

Allies to Saudi Arabia in the issue of disarmament are The United States, and the other Arab states in the Middle East. The Arab states consists of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Iraq, and other countries in that region.

“Since Arab States established a Common Position at the 2001 UN Conference on the Illicit Trade of Small Arms and Light Weapons, they have been working at the national and regional level to further the implementation of the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UN PoA)." (2) Additionally, Saudi Arabia signed The United Nations Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition in 2001. In conclusion, Saudi Arabia wants to put an end to illicit trade SALW’s to make their region safer.

1. Alpers, Philip and Marcus Wilson. 2014. Saudi Arabia — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law. Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney. GunPolicy.org, 16 July. Accessed 13 November 2014. at: http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/saudi-arabia

2. Alpers, Philip and Marcus Wilson. 2014. Saudi Arabia — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law. Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney. GunPolicy.org, 16 July. Accessed 13 November 2014. at: http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/saudi-arabia

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Somalia
Delegate Name: Daniel Caracheo
School: Grand Rapids City High School

Somalia has had issues concerning the amount of small arms and light weaponry within the country, such the terrorist group called Al-Shabaab which continues to terrorize the people of Somalia. The continued increase in weapons within the country will keep these dangerous factions active and will put more citizens life at risk. It will also create a reputation which will make trading will other countries more difficult as the will be their product as if being in danger. Our economy also relies heavily on livestock and the people who take care of them will be put in danger, resulting in them either forced to acquire ways to defend themselves and increase the violence issue within the country or run the risk of going unarmed. We the people of Somalia will not tolerate or stand for this behavior and agree to combat the spread of small arms and light weaponry to create a more stable country and end dangerous factions within Somalia. For the people within the country and their security. we will bring an end to these Muslim terrorist factions and end their path of violence. Not by violence from our own people as we cannot lose more citizens to these civil wars, as we have not the man power to contie fighting was of no economic value like this. We will face the opposition in a pacefull way that will remove weapons and hopefully end these terrible conflict by cambating against the spread of weapons for the armies waging war on Somalia

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: South Korea
Delegate Name: Nathan Atkins
School: Fishers High School

The Republic of Korea strongly believes that the uncontrolled spread of Small Arms and Light Weaponry through illicit trade has created a great issue and threatens international peace and security. The issue has been a key tool in crimes and civil wars throughout the international community. We suggest that the only way of preventing the trade of illicit SALWs is the implementation of the Programme of Action and stricter laws set in place by the Member States.

We believe that laws restricting the types of weapons a civilian may own should be set into place to prevent the illicit spread and abuse of Small Arms and Light Weaponry. Keeping heavier weapons out of civilian hands will decrease the possibility of these weapons being abused and or traded internationally via smuggling to aggressive and/or terroristic groups. Allowing these weapons brings more of a possibility of them lying in the hands of terrorist organizations. Via laws set by the Member States, all sorts of trade of these weapons could be internationally halted and controlled.

The Programme of Action and International Tracing Instrument should be greater inforced by Member States in able to better track and control the trading of Small Arms and Light Weaponry. By stronger implementing these documents, Member states may more closely keep watch on the exchanging of weapons and decrease crime throughout the international community. To keep circumstances more secure, SALWs should only be produced by government approved merchants. This will make it more difficult for an underground organization to get their hands on SALWs, because of trusted retailers supplying weapons.

In order to go through with our mission, we must first review both the Programme of Action and International Tracing Instrument. If Implemented and amended properly, these documents will be great weapons in and of themselves. In the past they have proved their worth in tracking the trade and usage of both civilian and illicit weapons. We must then take responsibility as Member States to enforce these in our own countries through both law and force. We must stop blaming the people and began blaming ourselves. So in conclusion, The Programme of Action, the International Tracing Instrument, and our very own responsibility as nations should come together to try to resolve conflict involving Small Arms and Light Weaponry and their illegal trading and overall spread. They are too dangerous to allow in the hands of the public and we realize it to be too large of a risk.

Works Cited

"Programme of Action and International Tracing Instrument." PoA-ISS. N.p., July 2008. Web. 09 Nov. 2014.

Shin, Dong Ik. "Small Arms and Light Weapons." Permanent Mission of the Republic Of Korea to the United Nations. The Republic of Korea, 27 Aug. 2012. Web. 9 Nov. 2014.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Spain
Delegate Name: Addison Chisholm
School: Williamston High School

The spread of small arms and light weapons is becoming a serious problem and has touched all parts of the world. United Nations defines small arms and light weapons as any man-portable lethal weapon that expels or launches, is designed to expel or launch, or may be readily converted to expel or launch a shot, bullet or projectile by the action of an explosive. To be more specific, small arms are weapons designed for individual use and light weapons are weapons designed for use by two or three persons serving as a crew, although some may be carried and used by a single person. Small arms are cheap, light and easy to handle, transport, and conceal which makes it considerably difficult to regulate unauthorized transfer and sale of these arms and weapons. The rapid spread of these uncontrolled weapons in the illicit market threatens peace and security. With these weapons often landing into the hands of warlords and traffickers it can pose a lot of danger which then creates a bigger demand for the weapons that cause the fear in the first place. With these weapons landing into the wrong hands it has given power to rebel groups who prevent delivery of humanitarian aid, urban gang members who exhort businesses, and terrorists who plot to create fear and destruction. To help prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons United Nations adopted the Programme of Action in 2001.

Spain is interested in resolving this issue of illicit small arms and light weapons spreading because it has directly affected them. In 2011 there were 257 deaths involving guns in Spain alone. This is a combination of homicides, suicides, accidents, and undetermined causes. There is an estimated total of 4,500,000 licit and illicit firearms with 3,051,588 of these guns registered. This leaves approximately 1,448,412 firearms that are illicit. However, this number is not completely accurate due to the fact that illicit firearms are very difficult to track to get a good estimation of the amount of illicit firearms that exist in Spain. In the world ranking of privately owned firearms, Spain is ranked number 18 out of 178 countries. Spain is a part of many organizations that are working to combat the spread of small arms and light weapons throughout the nation.

Spain is working hard to combat the spread of small arms and light weapons in their country. To begin their fight against this rapidly growing issue, Spain adopted all European Union measures on the control of small arms and light weapons, and was among the countries that had adopted the most inflexible standards. In addition, Spain was involved in the Standing International Committee for man-portable air defense systems. This country had launched a series of actions as part of its national strategy to administrate the Programme of Action with a goal of building and maintaining internal controls over all types of weapons. The Progamme of Action created a much anticipated decline in gun trafficking and many countries saw noticeable improvement. In hopes of continuing this trend of improvement, Spain attended the United Nation’s Review Conference in 2006 which was to review progress made in the Programme’s enactment. This will give the members of United Nations the opportunity to discuss the successes and failures of the Programme and to identify solutions to address them. Spain can expect to find allies in other members of United Nations and other groups that are also working to combat the spread of small arms and light weapons.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Sri Lanka
Delegate Name: Nick Rhoa
School: Mattawan High School

Sri Lanka has recently defeated rebel militants after a long twenty-six year conflict. Considering the fact that these rebels used illicit small arms and light weapons(SALW), the Sri Lankan government is eager to create a viable solution. Sri Lanka fully supports the United Nations attempts to stop the spread of illicit small arms and light weapons. Small arms and light weapons negatively affected the safety and security of Sri Lankan citizens, as well as, the development of economic growth during the civil-war.

The Sri Lankan President established the National Commission Against the Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons(NCAPISA) in October of 2004. The government of Sri Lanka later asked for the assistance of the United Nations to help with the design and implementation of a plan against small arms and light weapons. Sri Lanka has been requesting assistance with building a capacity to handle the SALW problem. With the United Nation’s help, the NCAPISA has created a National Policy and Action Plan. The Sri Lankan government also issued an island wide crackdown on illicit small arms starting in 2012.

The Sri Lankan government believes that many steps can be taken to stop the spread of SALW, such as, but not limited to, introducing tougher international laws to restrain organized criminal operations, creating an international system to effectively manage SALW stockpiles, and creating a procedure for individual countries to track and share their information about SALW with the international community. All in all, the Sri Lankan government looks forward to creating a permanent international solution to fight the spread of SALW.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Sudan
Delegate Name: Jake McLean
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The Republic of Sudan, being a nation that has experienced devastating civil war in part due to small arms proliferation, agrees that measures should be taken to limit the spread of small arms to belligerent groups.These measures should not exclude but should focus especially on the militia groups that The Republic of Sudan is currently fighting within its borders. Our nation, the great and powerful Republic of Sudan, states that the hostile christian secessionist groups, especially in the south and west regions of the country that our benevolent government is currently engaged in fighting with, should be regarded by the rest of the world as threats to stability in the region and in neighboring regions, and that their disarmament and eventual disbanding would be beneficial to the struggle to bring peace and stop the spread of small arms. However; international action taken to stop the spread of weapons in the borders of The Republic of Sudan should and ought to be coordinated by the nation itself, for Sudan does not wish to be the next Iraq by having colonial western powers interfere in obvious pursuit of oil. Regarding the spread of weapons else where in the world, currently The Republic of Sudan is much too preoccupied with its own problems and interior conflicts to be part of a major international effort to prevent the spread of weapon's in foreign lands, however, The Republic of Sudan will show unwavering dedication to preventing the proliferation of small arms within the nation and within the region.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Sweden
Delegate Name: Thomas Mack
School: East Grand Rapids High School

Sweden strongly believes that small arms and light weapons (SALWs) cause severe issues for the peace and security of people internationally. With gunshot wounds causing over a thousand people to die everyday, and three times as many being severely injured, Sweden believes it is time to act and to implement regulations in order to repress this worldwide crisis[1]. Approximately 60% of violent deaths are through the use of small arms and light weapons (SALWs), and there are almost 900 million SALWs in circulation today[2][3]. Less than 25% percent of those SALWs are in the hands of armies, police, or other governmental systems, leaving approximately 75% in the possession of civilians[3]. SALWs are an obvious threat to the wellbeing of citizens around the world, and Sweden believes it is imperative that measures be taken in order to mitigate the effects of SALWs.

Although locating all SALWs currently in regulation today may be an impossible task, preventative measures can certainly be taken in order to minimize the negative effects in the future. In Sweden, civilians are required to prove that the SALW be used for a specific use, such as a gun range or collecting[4]. In addition, licensed firearm dealers are required to keep record of all firearms and ammunition sold[4]. Sweden proposes that whenever a SALW is bought, anywhere in the world, it be entered into an international database. Many SALWs were originally intended for governmental or military use, but later got illicitly distributed through underground distribution networks. If a civilian were to be seen with an SALW, an official would have the right to look it up in the worldwide database to see what its original intent was, where it originally derived from, whether or not it was originally distributed for a military or government, and so on. From there, the official would have the right to confiscate the SALW if it is found to be necessary. This plan ensures safer use of SALWs and that these firearms are staying in the hands of governments instead of civilians.

Sweden also proposes that a reward system be put into place which would reward citizens for recovering SALWs that had been illicitly traded. Civilians would be much more motivated to not let this illegal activity go on behind their back and would be encouraged to be active in the disarmament process. Those that are guilty of illicit distribution of SALWs would be arrested and would be much easier found, and would also be discouraged from continuing illicit distribution of SALWs after they see how others are being caught.

Lastly, Sweden wholly backs the introduction of widespread advocacy and education efforts in an attempt to make populations across the globe more aware of what is happening and how threatening SALWs are. As a result of these efforts, Sweden hopes that civilians will be more motivated to turn in SALWs. Sweden also requests that government officials and militaries eliminate the nearly 40% of SALWs in their arsenals that are surplus, thereby suppressing the risk of those firearms getting into the hands of civilians[3]. Sweden hopes that the culmination of these efforts mitigates the grave dangers of SALWs, and Sweden fully supports and advocates for other reforms and policies that back this position.

1 "Gun Violence: The Global Crisis." International Action Network on Small Arms. Web. 15 Nov. 2014.

2 "Non-conflict Armed Violence." Small Arms Survey. Web. 15 Nov. 2014.

3 "Small Arms: No Single Solution | UN Chronicle." Small Arms: No Single Solution | UN Chronicle. Web. 15 Nov. 2014.

4 "Guns in Sweden – Firearms, Gun Law and Gun Control." Guns in Sweden – Firearms, Gun Law and Gun Control. Web. 15 Nov. 2014.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Switzerland
Delegate Name: Kara Hamann
School: Kalamazoo Central High School

Small arms and light weapons are the weapons of choice in today's internal conflicts. These arms are cheap, portable, long-lasting and widely available around the world. The United Nations estimates that there are currently 500 million small arms in circulation. Switzerland work closely with Azerbaijan and we co-hosted a workshop on small arms, entitled "Small Arms and Light Weapons: Practical Challenges for the Implementation of Current Undertakings in the OSCE and EAPC". the WCC International Relations staff and the CCIA Peacebuilding and Disarmament Reference Group, the Commission of the Churches on International Affairs of the World Council of Churches, at its forty-fourth was hosted by us.

Switzerland believes strongly in the issue of Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons. For years and year Switzerland has engaged peace- building, arms control, disarmament and non- proliferation activities. We also promote human security, both conflict and non- conflict settings, by protecting individual women, men and children. Switzerland has been working with other countries, international organizations and civil society in the development and implemen- tation of a broad spectrum of practical measures aimed at reducing the negative effects related to small arms and light weapons.

Since the late 1990s, Switzerland, and other countries has accordingly been in the process of elaborating a coherent and comprehensive policy to address small arms proliferation. We have been trying to track the trafficking of SALW. Switzerland is a Parton the European Union, working together to find out all irrational about the issue. The European Union (EU) is a major player in global efforts to prevent and combat the uncontrolled accumulation and proliferation of SALW and their ammunition. Switzerland does not take the issue of SALW lightly. We are working hard to stop it and end it for good. For the safety of our people and everyone else's.

https://www.eda.admin.ch/dam/eda/en/documents/publications/Friedenspolitik/Die-Schweizer-Strategie-zur-Bekaempfung-des-internationalen-Handels-und-des-Missbrauchs-von-Kleinwaffen-und-leichten-Waffen_en.pdf

http://www.nonproliferation.eu/documents/nonproliferationpapers/cdricpoitevin52b1d44997305.pdf

http://www.osce.org/fsc/57792

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Syria
Delegate Name: Colin O’Donnell
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The trading of Small Arms and Light Weapons is running rampant through Syria and the Middle East due to the spread of ISIS. Small Arms should be regulated thoroughly as to not fall into ISIS and other militants hands. This is affecting all of the people in the Middle East and due to the actions of ISIS it is now affecting countries all over the world. The main highway for transporting these arms is over the Iraqi and Syrian border. Not all weapons used by militants Illegally bought, some of these weapons have been stolen from the Iraqi military when ISIS invaded.

There are resolutions that have been adopted, the Council adopted resolution 2117 (2013)

Resolution 2117 says that Peacekeepers assist in building the capacity of Governments to implement commitments under existing global and regional instruments addressing the illicit trafficking of small arms, through weapons collection; disarmament, demobilization and reintegration programes; and by enhancing stockpile-management practices. Which has not worked seeing how a stockpile in Iraq had been overtaken and the weapons are now in the wrong hands.

We think that a new coalition should be formed to help stop the spread of ISIS and in doing so help stop or at least slow the spread of SLAWs throughout the Middle East. We insist that the air campaign be increased and that ground troops be brought in from countries around the world to help stop the spread of ISIS and ultimately stopping a large portion of the illegal gun trade.

I expect full cooperation from the United States, France, Germany, The United Kingdom, Denmark, Belgium, Estonia, The Netherlands, Portugal, Argentina, Canada, Iraq, Turkey, Greece, Australia, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Italy. Any others who would like to cooperate should act respectfully.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Tunisia
Delegate Name: Lily Huver
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The circulation of small arms and light weapons is an issue that every country faces and the Tunisian Republic is no exception. Recently there has been a large scale security assessment in north Africa to expose security flaws between borders. In Tunisia, lightweight firearms are predominantly an issue at the Libyan and Algerian borders. International standards must be put into place to decrease the rates of smuggling between borders of all affected borders. Corrupt organizations and all perpetrators for that matter need to be brought to justice in order to keep international peace and to maintain civilian safety.

In recent months, measures have been Taken in the Republic of Tunisia to combat the circulation of SALW’s such as assessments and heightened security details at borders. To make assessments more effective, they must be standardized and take place in every country to expose issues. Security standards must also be put into place in order to make the capture of delinquents equal efficient. It is just as imperative that each country report their SALW’s exports to the United Nation on a yearly basis, so it can effectively be monitored.

With International cooperation, the Tunisian Republic believes that it is most certainly possible to weaken the effects of SALW’s on an international scale. Widespread education is definitely a great mean of mitigating this issue as well as keeping the public informed on this issue.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Turkey
Delegate Name: Janea Wilson
School: Roeper School

The Republic of Turkey knows that small arms and light weapons are used internationally and are the cause of many casualties, especially in developing countries. Small arms and light weapons are meant for individual and non-professional use, although the uncontrolled distribution poses a threat to peace and security. Turkey is a signatory to, and openly welcomes the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) which is to go into force on December 24, 2014. The purpose of the ATT is to set common standards for international trade of conventional weapons and reduce the illegal trade. The amount of weaponry obtained by a state should be documented. It also takes some good judgment from states to judge what the purpose of the weapons may be. Although many precautions are taken, there will be no restrictions placed on the amount or type of weapons bought by a state. Crisis, like the one in Syria, will be reduced if weapons have tighter restrictions and are not as easy to obtain. Turkey would like to contribute to all efforts involving and not involving the United Nations to regulate small arms trade.

Although, Turkey is one of the world’s top ten small arms exporters, it is still important that non-state actors do not have wholesale ability to get their hands on weapons. Each country should have their own laws for regulating small arms and light weapons. It is understood that personal protection is needed when government help is not available, especially keeping in mind the crisis currently occurring on our southern border. International support is needed in order to reduce the illegal obtainment and accumulation of weapons by militant groups. Being one of the first countries to endorse the UN initiatives to control weapons in 1996, small arms control is an important problem to Turkey and is prevalent in the world.

Turkey urges all nations to become a party to the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), and in light of shifting international circumstances (such as Syria) involving uncontrolled trade in small arms and other weapons, asks that this committee, all signatories, and all other nations which have not yet signed to consider further action to expand the scope of this treaty to more effectively regulate arms trade.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Ukraine
Delegate Name: Charlie Buckley
School: Williamston High School

Illicit arms trading is a major global problem as well as the byproducts that come from the illicit trading such as murders, armed conflicts, supplying drug dealers, terrorists as well as many more. Ukraine itself is very aware of this problem and the problems that it can and will cause, so with the knowledge of this we can start to make much more informed decisions about the laws that we pass. We are very informed about this problem from our own problems that have been caused a great deal by illicit arms coming and going in and out of our country. The consequences of these illicit transactions have been the armament of some of the most notorious regimes in modern history! Such as the Iraqi regime of Saddam Hussein or the Taliban of Afghanistan or in more recent events ISIS!

After the fall of the Soviet Union most of the ex-soviet states that were very well armed had no means to protect the weapons that they had at their disposal, the Ukraine being one of the larger ones had a small arms net worth of around 89 billion US dollars in 1991 when just a couple years later in 1998 the net worth was around 32 to 57 billion US dollars lower then in 1991. Not only is this bad for Ukraine in the sense of arming militias groups but also the Ukraine could become a hub of either criminal or terrorist organizations, which would not be in the best interest of either party.

Buy back programs have been in affect in many country’s world wide but mainly only in developed nations like USA, Australia or many European country’s like that. And even in these areas the numbers are not very high in the amount that was bought back, so a U.N. Sponcerd buy back program would buy and then destroy the weapons, so that the government could make a profit and the amount of guns in the world could begin to fall. Nations that we believe that would support us are Mexico, Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey, Germany, Spain and England.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Sydney Graham
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

Small arms and light weapons (SALWs) while not necessarily large in size present a big threat to international security. SALWs may be used to perpetrate a number of crimes such as robbery, theft and rape. In some countries, guns have been involved in a number of conflicts between civilians and the police ending in the unnecessary death of the civilian. Another problem in the realm of small arms and light weapons is the illicit trade of such weapons.

The United Kingdom prefers strict gun control laws because reducing access to guns helps control gun related crimes while making the job of tracking the arms that are in circulation more manageable. Civilians in the United Kingdom are not given access to fully automatic weapons and use of semi-automatic weapons is restricted. As a result of our policies, the United Kingdom has one of the lowest rates of gun homicides in the world.

We believe that the international community should follow our example by imposing more restrictions on what guns the civilians have access to. Greater effort should be made to produce more legislation that requires small arms and light weapons to be traceable. Because this is an issue of such gravity, nations should not hesitate to use government operations within their own borders in order to find and confiscate small arms and light weapons.

The United Kingdom fully supports advocating more comprehensive legislation that restricts gun ownership and use as well as education on the dangers of allowing the mass distribution of small arms and light weapons. Although personal freedom to bear arms is a much enjoyed privilege by some, is it really worth the level of violence enabled by these diminutive yet destructive items?

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: United States
Delegate Name: Owen Slubowski
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

SLAWs are a problem for countries big and small. Almost every country has had problems with these unregulated weapons, from the boarders of America to the so called “lawless” deserts of libya all these weapons do is bring death and despair. America has been affected greatly by these unregulated weapons in cases of cartel killings. It is said that in some parts of the world you can go up to a maa single chicken for a fully automatic AK-47, and there will be no way of anyone knowing where that gun is or what it is used for even if it is recovered or found. This can pose a big problems for some countries, which is why America believe that there needs to be a place where these countries can go for assistance. America has been in support and has assisted countries in disarmament of illegally obtained stockpiles.

America is in support of marking weapons to create accountability; marking will allow authorities to see where and when the weapon was made so they can pinpoint where these weapons are coming from. Manufacturers should also keep records of when and where they ship arms and if the country so chooses they should receive one on and trade of these statements. America also supports border security, this can make it very difficult for arms to make it inside a country. America does not intend to support a global arms collection, we intend to set up support networks for countries who feel they have an arms problem.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Venezuela
Delegate Name: Michelle Svilpe
School: Mattawan High School

Venezuela has a commonly known problem with illegal weapons in the country, a tremendous number being present in previous years. With an extremely high murder rate, Venezuela has been looking into methods to combat small arms and light weapons both effectively and safely for their people. The illegal weapons within the country are obtained from outside and brought in, being used commonly in homicides against civilians. Venezuela has struggled with small arms violations for numerous years, but is slowly combatting them as time progresses. Although certain guns are highly prohibited from civilians, they are still found within the country in large numbers.

Over the years, thousands of firearms have been destroyed in the country and more will continue to be removed. In 2011 alone, 130,000 illegal weapons were destroyed and removed from the possession of those who had received them illegally. Ties with surrounding countries have been strained due to the gun trade, the illegal weapons coming from bordering countries and endangering the Venezuelan population. Availability of ammunition has also been regulated to decrease the use of illegal weapons within the country.

Venezuela has several policies in position to combat small arms and implements them when illicit weapons are found. The country is making progress every year and numbers of destroyed arms increases as well. Previously, Venezuela has abstained to certain presented measures due to lack of clarity and substance. Restrictions and regulations on the attainability of small arms has been increased drastically, so those who own small arms are receiving them legally within the country.

Creating a national form of identification and disposal method may be where the committee needs to turn to. There are many methods possible that the country would like to hear about and possibly begin as well. Venezuela would like to see disarmament on a larger scale both inside and outside of the country in order to increase safety. Venezuela looks forward to seeing communication and efforts to work with other countries to combat illicit weapons and create safety for its people and the people of other countries.

Topic: Combating the Spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons
Country: Vietnam
Delegate Name: Mackenzie McCowen
School: Vicksburg High School

Around the world today the spread of illicit small arms and light weapons (SALW's) has grown dramatically. SAWL's are weapons that can be carried by and individual that can expel or launch, such as hand guns or grenade launchers. Various countries have there own laws pertaining to the prevention of the spread of arms. The United Nations Office for Disarmament feels a great concern for this current situation for there is an estimated 600 million SALW's traveling around the world.

The Socialist Republic of Vietnam recognizes the concern of this situation and continues to slowly progress in fighting against it. In Vietnam it is currently prohibited to own any SAWL's other than a shotgun, but the owner must be permitted, at least 18 year's of age and have a valid reason for owning the weapon such as hunting. It is also illegal to exchange weapons, or give the weapon to a family member. This concept has slowly decreased the amount of illicit guns in Vietnam. Currently the only international restrictions governing small arms transfers that apply to southeast Asian countries are UN arms embargos. By limiting who, how and the type of gun that can be owned and for it's purpose, countries can keep better track of SALW's and can be shared through out the world the number that is collected in order to contain the situation.

These efforts that are being used by Southeastern Asian countries along with other laws, should be spread throughout the world in order to begin the process of globally eliminating the spread of SALW's. If the world were to make it illegal to trade small arms, other than through military and government contracts to other military and government officials the dispersion of SALW's would be limited.