QUNO’s director in Geneva, Nozizwe MADLALA ROUTLEDGE, took the floor at the 49th Session of the Human Rights Council to emphasize that arms proliferation in society contributes to its increased militarisation, legitimizing and perpetuating the use of violence. This was on the occasion of the presentation of an important and topical OHCHR report A/HRC/49/41 on the ‘Impact of the civilian acquisition, possession and use of firearms by children and youth’.

QUNO particularly welcomed the reports recognition that most firearms are legally manufactured - indeed, solely focusing on illicit or diverted weapons would be ignoring the impact of legal arms transfers or acquisitions.

In light of this report – QUNO encouraged States to take more preventative measures and address root causes of armed violence in communities; called on consistent application of the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights by States and business actors and called on all HRC mechanisms to include weapons related risks and impacts into their work.

For the full statement see below and for the full recording see above.