2006:05 Small Arms and Light Weapons Trade
Whereas:
- Numerous wars worldwide involve the use of "small arms and light weapons";
- The prevalence of these weapons poses significant threats to international peace, security, and economic development;
- Canada has played a leadership role in addressing this issue globally but has not yet ratified the 2001 United Nations Protocol Against the Illicit Manufacturing and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition;
- A Global Arms Trade Treaty is needed to address and control the small arms and light weapons trade through international agreements.
Resolved:
The National Council of Women of Canada adopts as policy that Canada should be a global leader in halting the trade of small arms and light weapons worldwide.
Further Resolved:
The National Council of Women of Canada urges the Government of Canada to:
a. Ratify the 2001 United Nations Protocol and expedite its worldwide implementation.
b. Reform Canadian laws to ensure military and security exports are monitored and comply with licensing requirements.
c. Participate in international forums to ensure that small arms assessments prioritize democracy and human rights.
d. Support the development of a Global Arms Trade Treaty with measures to control small arms and light weapons.
The National Council of Women of Canada also requests Provincial and Local Councils to ensure their governments ratify the 2001 United Nations Protocol and encourage immediate action if not already completed.