Global Week of Action Against Gun Violence: 27 July – 2 August 2026

All Voices Heard: Advancing Inclusive Small Arms Control

The Global Week of Action Against Gun Violence brings together civil society organizations, governments, communities, and individuals around the world to promote action to prevent armed violence and strengthen small arms control.

The 2026 campaign, “All Voices Heard: Advancing Inclusive Small Arms Control,” highlights the importance of ensuring that those most affected by gun violence have a meaningful role in shaping policies and solutions. Women, youth, survivors of armed violence, marginalized communities, and civil society organizations all have valuable experiences and perspectives that can contribute to more effective and sustainable approaches to preventing armed violence.

Building on the outcomes of the Ninth Biennial Meeting of States (BMS9) on the implementation of the UN Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons (UNPoA), the campaign calls for inclusive participation, stronger partnerships, and concrete action to address the impacts of small arms and light weapons (SALW) around the world.

Key Messages

• Ensure all voices are heard by promoting the meaningful participation of women, youth, survivors, affected communities, and civil society in small arms control decision-making and implementation.
• Strengthen control over small arms, light weapons, and ammunition, including the collection, destruction, and safe disposal of surplus stockpiles, to prevent diversion and reduce armed violence.
• Mainstream gender perspectives and youth engagement while advancing the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) and Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agendas and supporting survivor-centred approaches.
• Set measurable national and regional targets to strengthen implementation of the UN Programme of Action and the commitments agreed at BMS9.
• Align small arms control efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to promote peace, security, equality, and sustainable development.
• Build safer communities through inclusive and accountable action, including effective regulation of civilian possession of SALW and meaningful partnerships among governments, civil society, and affected communities.

Get Involved!

Organizations and individuals are encouraged to organize activities that raise awareness, engage decision-makers, amplify community voices, and promote practical solutions to prevent gun violence. Together, we can ensure that all voices are heard and advance a more inclusive approach to small arms control that contributes to safer communities, sustainable development, and lasting peace.

Access all campaign materials, publications and updates below.