December 17, 2025.
International human rights law obliges States to protect the right to life, liberty and security of person, including rights that can never be suspended, even in times of conflict or emergency. A central way for States to meet these obligations is through the strict control of small arms and light weapons (SALW), including regulating their transfer, possession and use in line with international standards and accountability. This publication was made in collaboration with the International Peace Information Service (IPIS).
This briefing paper sets out the binding responsibilities of States under international human rights law, international humanitarian law and arms control instruments to prevent violence and abuse facilitated by SALW. Drawing on UN reporting and documented cases, it shows how the misuse and proliferation of firearms are directly linked to serious human rights violations, disproportionately affecting women, children and marginalized communities.
The paper highlights the practical measures required to prevent harm and ensure accountability, including robust national controls, effective implementation of the UN Programme of Action on Small Arms, the Arms Trade Treaty and the UN Firearms Protocol, responsible regulation of civilian firearms and ammunition, and strong oversight of arms manufacturing and transfers. It emphasizes the importance of gender-responsive and youth-inclusive approaches, civil society participation and international cooperation.
At a time of escalating armed violence worldwide, the paper underscores a clear message: controlling small arms is not only a security priority, but a fundamental human rights obligation.