Review Conference of the Programme of Action on Small Arms: Failure is not an Option

As the future of an Arms Trade Treaty remains uncertain, existing instruments on small arms and light weapons (SALW) must be reinforced. The Programme of Action and the International Tracing Instrument are unique instruments at the international level for which a consensus exists and whose relevance is unquestionable. States must use the Review Conference (27 August - 7 September 2012) to renew and strengthen the commitments undertaken within the PoA. This Review Conference should also tackle the need for assessing progress made so far by States in their implementation of the PoA.