The end of the Cold War heralded a period of progress in disarmament and non-proliferation as was evidenced by the entry into force of the Chemical Weapons Convention and the conclusion of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. However, the re-emergence of maximalist positions in the disarmament debate retards global disarmament, as demonstrated by the disappointing progress made at Conference on Disarmament this year. Despite the consensual adoption of a mandate for the negotiation of a Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty, one of the essential elements for complete nuclear disarmament, little progress has been made. Nevertheless, South Africa is encouraged by the large number of States which have committed themselves to the complete eradication of weapons of mass destruction by joining various non- proliferation and disarmament treaties during the past year. Universal adherence to important disarmament treaties will pave the way toward a world free of weapons of mass destruction.
Humanity is faced with the daily threat of harm from the use of conventional weapons.
High priority should be placed on strategies and policies intended to prevent the proliferation of conventional weapons and to reduce their flow to conflict areas. The conclusions reached by the UN Panel of Experts on Small Arms lay the foundation for future action by the international community. The Convention is a clear and total ban on anti-personnel mines and establishes a compelling new international norm against this scourge which has so long been wrought on humanity, especially innocent civilians mostly women and children. South Africa looks forward to the early entry into force of the Convention and appeals to all states to heed the call of the international community against these inhumane weapons. South Africa has often expressed grave concern at the involvement of its nationals in mercenary activities because these activities inhibit the achievement of peaceful solutions to internal conflicts and destabilise regions.