The bustling city of Kathmandu, Nepal, will host an international meeting on December 4-5, 2024. The Asia-Pacific region’s leaders, policymakers, and experts will gather to address ammunition management.
Organized by the United Nations and supported by Germany, this meeting will focus on implementing the new Global Framework for Through-life Conventional Ammunition Management.
Inadequate ammunition management creates severe security risks: diversion, trafficking, and misuse fuel armed conflict, violence, and terrorism. Non-state actors often use diverted ammunition to build improvised explosive devices.
Poorly managed stockpiles also lead to unplanned explosions, causing loss of life, economic devastation, and environmental damage.
The Asia-Pacific region faces unique challenges with ammunition management. Addressing these issues is vital for public safety, stability, and sustainable development.
In December 2023, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Global Framework to combat these problems.
This Framework establishes practical measures to manage ammunition throughout its lifecycle, from production to disposal. It includes 15 objectives to enhance safety, security, and sustainability.
Clear guidelines prevent diversion, reduce explosion risks, and ensure responsible disposal. These steps provide nations with a roadmap to strengthen their policies and practices.
The meeting in Kathmandu will promote the Framework and its commitments. Officials from 20 Asia-Pacific countries will join representatives from United Nations entities, NGOs, and civil society.
Participants will exchange best practices to improve safety and security. Discussions will focus on mitigating risks such as diversion and unplanned explosions.
Regional initiatives on arms control will also be examined to align with the Framework’s goals.
As Objective 14 of the Framework outlines, gender equality will receive particular attention. It aligns with the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda.
Discussions will explore how inclusive approaches can enhance security and promote equality. Participants will also connect the Framework to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The meeting’s goals include identifying region-specific challenges and solutions. The Asia-Pacific region’s political and cultural diversity requires collaborative approaches.
Stakeholders aim to foster partnerships that address these unique dynamics. Civil society and NGOs will be key in ensuring that community perspectives shape policies.
Effective ammunition management extends beyond security concerns. It helps reduce armed violence, create safer communities, and support disarmament goals.
Gender-sensitive approaches also empower marginalized groups and encourage participation in security initiatives.
As the world confronts rising security challenges, this Framework provides hope. The Kathmandu meeting will advance its implementation in the Asia-Pacific region.
By fostering dialogue, sharing expertise, and building partnerships, participants can pave the way for safer and more sustainable practices.
The outcomes will strengthen regional and global security while advancing sustainable development. As Nepal’s vibrant capital hosts this gathering, the discussions could inspire positive change beyond the Asia-Pacific region.