United Nations Radio

The uncontrolled trade in small arms and their excessive accumulation and proliferation continue to pose a threat to international peace and security, this according to the Director of Office of Disarmament Affairs, Hannelore Hoppe.

At a Security Council meeting on the issue, Ms. Hoppe said the issue of small arms crosscuts into most of the items on the agenda of the Security Council, ranging from ongoing conflicts, children and armed conflict, terrorism, drugs trafficking to cross border issues and illegal exploitation of natural resources.

"We have all witnessed how these weapons have been used to maiM, kill; plunder and rape; instill fear and insecurity; block humanitarian aid; hold communities at ransom; destroy the social fabric of entire countries; and how their excessive accumulation and misuse has hindered stability and development in every way imaginable."

Ms. Hoppe said the Secretary-General is encouraged by the continued efforts of the Security Council to address the challenges posed by illicit small arms and light weapons.

Diane Bailey, United Nations Radio.

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