Gun violence over the years has decreased, but unfortunately, is still severely prevalent in everyday life. In 2016, there were over 500 deaths and 2,000 injuries daily[5].  Between 2012 and 2016, around 1.4 million individuals globally lost their lives because of armed violence[6]. Half of these deaths were mainly concentrated in the American continent, more specifically in the United States, and 5 other Latin American countries, such as Venezuela and Guatemala[7]. Despite the high level of deaths associated with firearms in these countries, the latter only comprises 10% of the global population[8].

 

The use of small weapons violates the human rights of individuals around the world. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states in Article 3 that “everyone has the right to life, liberty and security”[9]. However, the proliferation of guns and other small arms violates this basic right to protection and safety. The easier the access to guns, the higher the homicides and suicides rates are and the more human rights are violated.

 

In response to the global proliferation of guns, the United Nations developed a specific goal that advocates for universal harmony and the reduction of armed violence. Among the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) created in 2015, SDG 16 focuses on the promotion of international peace as SDG 16.4 advocates for the reduction of “illicit financial and arms flow.” Furthermore, SDG 5.2 calls for the end of gender-based violence, while SDG 4.A focuses on creating a non-violent and non-discriminatory environment. Thus, the United Nations, which includes member states and civil society, as well as NGOs around the world are working toward creating a safe and sheltered environment worldwide.

 

Join the International Action Network on Small Arms (IANSA) in the fight against the expansion and abuse of guns and other weapons to improve and save lives globally!