The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons remains one of the most pressing security challenges of the 21st century. Globally, it is estimated that hundreds of millions of unregistered and illegally circulated weapons are fueling armed conflicts, sustaining organized crime, and exacerbating terrorism. The unregulated flow of arms not only undermines international peace and security but also destabilizes regions, prolongs civil wars, and contributes to immense humanitarian crises. Small arms trafficking is closely linked to other forms of transnational crime, such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, and money laundering. In conflict zones, illegally traded arms often empower insurgent groups and non-state actors, threatening the sovereignty of states and making post-conflict recovery more difficult. Furthermore, the proliferation of such weapons has devastating social consequences, rising civilian casualties, increased gender-based violence, and the displacement of vulnerable communities.

The Disarmament and International Security Committee (DISEC) plays a crucial role in addressing this issue through dialogue, international cooperation, and the creation of frameworks that regulate and monitor arms transfers. This agenda calls for innovative, collaborative, and enforceable measures to tackle the global surge in arms trafficking. Member states must explore strategies that strengthen border controls, enhance transparency in arms transfers, and build capacities for states disproportionately affected by this crisis, ensuring collective progress toward global peace and stability.