January 2, 2026.
IANSA encourages its global network of civil society organisations (CSOs) to foster inclusive participation to address the root causes of small arms-related violence. This Civil Society Training Manual seeks to provide CSOs with conceptual clarity regarding gender-sensitive and transformative strategies, as well as practical tools for integrating gender mainstreaming perspectives.
The Civil Society Training Manual draws upon a number of sources including a 2022 United Nations manual on gender mainstreaming and small arms control designed for government officials, researchers and other key stakeholders. The Training Manual explores the different contexts in which violence with small arms and light weapons (SALW) occurs, recognising the need for CSOs to understand intersection of gender and other key causal factors.
Structured as a training-focused guide, the Manual combines conceptual foundations with hands-on tools. It introduces key concepts of gender and intersectionality, applies gender analysis to armed violence and gender-based violence, and provides practical methodologies such as sex-disaggregated data collection, stakeholder mapping, participatory analysis and evaluation frameworks. Throughout, exercises and workshop guidance support CSOs in translating analysis into action.
The Manual emphasizes that effective SALW control requires more than regulation alone. It calls for gender-transformative approaches that challenge harmful norms, including violent masculinities, promote inclusive participation, and address the root causes of violence. By equipping CSOs with concrete tools and adaptable training methods, the Manual supports the development of context-specific, rights-based strategies to reduce armed violence and promote equality, human security and peace.