After a conflict, small arms may become instruments for other forms of violence, such as crime and banditry, disruption of economic or foreign aid, and interference with efforts to deliver food, medicine, and supplies to people in dire need of relief. Refugees are often afraid to return to their homes because of the large number of weapons still in the hands of the population. With the adult male population greatly diminished, women often become the main provider for their devastated families during and after a conflict. The presence of small arms makes this task increasingly difficult. For example, women are integral to reintegration and rehabilitation projects for former combatants.
Women manage the consequences of small arms proliferation on a daily basis.
Light weapons, ammunition, grenades, landmines, and explosives are also part of this category. SAWG members believe that small arms proliferation must be countered by more responsible policies on legal sales and international cooperation to reduce illicit trafficking. International Action Network on Small Arms. All Rights Reserved.