Brazil's role in Arms Trade Treaty debate
On 5 October the UN discussed the next steps for building an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) to set common criteria for the exports of weapons. Its goal is to stop weapons getting to conflict zones, terrorists and regimes that abuse human rights. Each country will set up their own export control system based on the common criteria of the treaty - so it will not effect anyone's soverignty. We believe a treaty should set up a transparent system that does not deter legitimate weapons exports or infringe on domestic arms controls.
A key partner for us on pushing forward the ATT is Brazil. President Lula's public support has been welcome. Like the UK, Brazil is a weapons manufactuer that wants a globally fair and transparent arms trade that does not undermine security or human rights.Brazil's experience of controling small arms is already being shared elsewhere through the work of NGOs such as Viva Rio. And Brazil's involvement in supporting the ATT shows that it is not just an issue the Northern countries are concerned with, but a global issue.
At the UN, the vast majority of states are supportive of the idea of an Arms Trade Treaty. At the last vote on it in December 2008, 133 states voted favour of a resolution 'Towards and Arms Trade Treaty'. 19 abstained and 1 voted against it. Some states still have concerns about the details of a final treaty, but there is general consensus that we need an effective, legally binding mechanism.
If we achieve this, future generations will be grateful that we spared them the scourge of these weapons being used in civil wars, terrorism and the abuse of human rights.
It is important that not only the government, but also the citizens to get involved in this debate. A way to support the debate is to participate on the electronic campaign "Support an Arms Trade Treaty" at http://twibbon.com/cause/Support-an-Arms-Trade-Treaty/Join.
I support it, and you?
Posted at 11:21 08 Outubro 2009 by Alan Charlton | Comentário [0]
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