By: Joseph Parker

The General Assembly First Committee (GA1) shifted its focus today to its second major topic: the regulation of small arms and light weapons (SALW). Representatives highlighted growing global concerns regarding the accessibility, misuse and trafficking of these weapons, emphasizing that their impact extends far beyond the battlefield.

One of the key concerns raised during discussion was the link between small arms and gender-based crimes. Several representatives noted that the widespread availability of SALW enables domestic violence and the targeted oppression of women in conflict zones. Delegations stressed the need for gender-aware policy solutions that prioritize the protection of vulnerable communities. Representative Elenar Osmond of Canada stated, “Illegal small arms are a problem due to their use when it comes to harming women and children and we believe that this issue should be solved.”

Another major point of debate centered on the circulation of illegal weapons. Representatives argued that black-market trade fuels instability, empowers criminal groups and undermines national sovereignty. Many Member States called for stronger international cooperation to track, seize and reduce illicit weapon flows. Representative Madeline from Egypt said, “It is important to crack down on illegal weapons that are used by non-State Members and we believe that strengthening regulations on tracing and tracking will stop these arms from getting into the wrong hands.”

Border security emerged as a third challenge, with multiple states emphasizing that porous borders allow traffickers to move weapons freely between regions. Improved surveillance, increased inspections and enhanced information-sharing were proposed as potential solutions to limit cross-border smuggling. Representative Gavin Ros of Saudi Arabia said, “Border control, customs sharing and screening technology are steps to help take back control of the small-arms issues we face. We also want to look into why individuals want to join groups of terror and find a way to get them out.”

Finally, the Committee addressed the broader question of how to strengthen restrictions and limit the spread of SALW. Some Representatives pushed for stricter export controls and transparent reporting systems, while others cautioned that overly aggressive regulations might hinder States rights to self-defense. Representative Sieayla Olson of Malta added, “Transparency and clear communication about essential arms are necessary to create better systems for tracking weapons—and to prevent the spread of those we do not want.”

As debate continues, GA1 aims to build a resolution that balances national security, human rights and international cooperation. Representatives remain divided on several approaches, but many expressed confidence that meaningful progress can be made toward reducing the global threats posed by small arms and light weapons.