NCJ Number
177229
Editor(s)
S Meek
Date Published
1998
Length
56 pages
Annotation
This conference addressed the nature and extent of the illegal export of light weapons and small arms into African countries and the tendency of communities to use violent means to resolve conflicts.
Abstract
Conference participants were asked to discuss the impact of illegal small arms proliferation on violence and security and to explain what caused or exacerbated such proliferation. Discussions focused on Central Africa and the Great Lakes Region (Rwanda, Burundi, and Democratic Republic of the Congo), Southern Africa (Mozambique and South Africa), East Africa (Kenya), and West Africa (Mali). Conference participants also considered illegal small arms proliferation through the islands of the Indian Ocean. In addition, they discussed the intensity of interstate and ideological conflicts, security challenges, and actions taken by the various countries to counter security threats. The role of regional and international organizations in violence prevention and the control of illegal small arms proliferation was addressed, and the need for the exchange of early warning information on conflicts in Africa was emphasized. Specific recommendations to prevent the proliferation of illegal small arms were offered that concerned prioritizing small arms as a security issue, conducting regional information exchanges, improving resources for control measures, enhancing the role of nongovernmental organizations, recognizing the link between poverty and crime and firearms, and facilitating regional and national coordination on small arms issues.