Amidst armed conflict, Ukraine becomes 119th signatory to the Arms Trade Treaty
Categories: Articles:Peacemaking |
Published: 25/09/2014 |
Views: 1862
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin signed the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) as part of his visit to the opening of the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Control Arms welcomes Ukraine joining the Treaty and urges them to begin the ratification process as soon as possible. The ATT, once ratified and implemented, will reduce the flow of weapons into – as well as out of – the country, which will ultimately help make Ukraine a safer place.
Ukraine is among the top 10 arms exporters in the world and in the past, has been involved in many high-profile, controversial arms transfers, particularly to Sub-Saharan Africa. As an arms producer, and owner of a significant stockpile of weapons from Soviet days, the Ukraine also regularly plays a brokering role. Ukraine is the 119th country to sign the ATT, with further signatories expected later this week. Read more here
The Ecumenical Campaign for a Strong and Effective Arms Trade Treaty is led by the World Council of Churches. Through letter writing and in-person advocacy, the campaign has been able to express to governments in all global regions the need for a treaty with a “human scope”. It includes approximately 60 representatives of churches, related agencies and faith networks in 30 countries and highlights the important role that local religious communities can play in bringing the human condition to the negotiations for a strong and effective ATT and beyond.
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