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Armed conflicts are a tragic reality of the world that we live in. However, as set out in the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW), conventional weapons that are excessively injurious or whose effects are indiscriminate need not be part of this reality. The CCW is an important instrument of international humanitarian law. A priority of the CCW States Parties is expanding the Convention's membership. Currently there are 118 States Parties to the CCW and the latest country to join is Iraq. This CCW Booklet provides a brief background and history to the Convention and its Protocols, interesting facts on the CCW, information on how States can join and participate in the CCW's meetings, and the mandate of and support provided by the CCW Implementation Support Unit. The booklet is designed to be a guide for those States considering joining the CCW and a useful resource for those working to promote …

Treaties are essential to the maintenance of international law and order, and States depend on them to provide stability and consistency in international relations. This publication contains the text of multilateral treaties that focus on nuclear weapons, other weapons of mass destruction, conventional arms, and nuclear-weapon-free zones, all of which are essential for promoting peace and security. It also includes treaties in which disarmament and non-proliferation are important elements within a larger framework of issues, such as the Antarctic Treaty or the Agreement Governing the Activities of States on the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies. The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs hopes this book will be a useful tool for diplomats, researchers, those in the service of States parties to the various treaties and conventions, those States not yet parties, and in promoting and furthering the universalization of these …

This publication speaks to young people by encouraging them to engage in an active and thoughtful way in this important issue for all of humankind. It is full of practical ideas including starting a discussion group, hosting a film screening, or creating an event where students and their friends can become informed, express their opinions and reach out to others on this important subject. It provides a vision to help alleviate violence through awareness raising and taking action. This publication aims to help students become agents for positive social change and a better world for …

These guidelines on how to establish and maintain gun-free zones seek to provide clear and comprehensive guidance to assist national governments, local authorities, and international development and peacebuilding organizations in their efforts to prevent and reduce armed violence anywhere in the world.   …