17 November 2015
Approximately 160 people, representing 66 countries and 18 organisations met at the building of the World Meterological Organization from 16-17 November to initiate a discussion on establishing a common understanding of the safe and secure management of conventional ammunition.This meeting, hosted by the Swiss Federal Departments of Foreign Affairs and Defence Civil Protection and Sport, was intended to provide a platform for multilateral and open discussions among States’ representatives, international and non-governmental organisations and other experts on the relevance of the topic; take stock of international efforts in addressing the issue; and, discuss possible ways forward. The meeting was supported by the GICHD and Small Arms Survey.
During a presentation by the GICHD in the first day of the meeting, it was stated that ammunition store explosions and diversion from stockpiles are a global issue with wide humanitarian impact and political and technical dimensions, including challenges on security and the environment. Although there is no one solution to it, even basic remedies can have a major impact in improving the current state of ammunition management in many countries.
For more information on the meeting, please see:
Meeting Statements
Meeting information page