Exploring Technological Solutions to Counter the Diversion of Conventional Weapons: Possibilities, Limitations and Barriers

Geneva, Switzerland
Past
Exploring Technological Solutions to Counter the Diversion of Conventional Weapons: Possibilities, Limitations and Barriers

The diversion of conventional arms into the hands of unauthorised users and for unauthorised use causes many adverse effects. In recent years, significant attention has been given to strengthening national controls and improving processes to implement regional and international conventional arms control instruments to prevent diversion. To-date, however, there appears to be a gap between discussions on the potential benefits of using technologies to counter-diversion and their actual use for tackling diversion. There are already some technologies that could be efficient and effective in preventing, tackling, or mitigating diversion risks and methods, and merit more widespread use and testing.

The Flemish Peace Institute (FPI) and the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) hosted a launch event for a new report that explores how technology could be applied to help counter the diversion of conventional arms and related components. Specifically, the report presents a new approach to identify and assess various technologies for countering diversion. The event also provided an overview of technology solutions which could be applied, or their use increased, to prevent, tackle and mitigate the risks of diversion and unauthorised end-use of small arms and light weapons and components of conventional arms.

SPEAKERS

Opening remarks and moderator:

  • Katrien de Pauw, Permanent Mission of Belgium to the UN in Geneva, Delegation of Flanders

Panellists:

  • Commander Stéphane Audrand, French Ministry of the Armed Forces

  • Diederik Cops, Flemish Peace Institute

  • Marcus Dantas, Head of Firearms Trafficking Repression Service of Federal Police, Brazil

  • Spencer Chilvers, Head of Export Control Policy, Rolls-Royce

  • Sarah Grand-Clément, UNIDIR

WHEN & WHERE

Thursday 24 August 2023, 13:15 – 14:45 CET. Room F, CICG (ATT CSP9 Conference venue), Geneva.

A light lunch was provided outside Conference Room F.

For any questions or further queries please contact Sanem Topal (sanem.topal@un.org)