Each year, 740,000 people are killed as a direct result of armed violence—almost one person a minute. It is estimated that at least 875 million small arms and light weapons are in circulation today. To find out more, go to:
The global burden of armed violence constitutes a major developmental challenge.
Armed violence can erode governance structures, creates a climate of fear, undermines peace initiatives, exacerbates human rights abuses, prevents investment, disrupts markets, and closes schools and clinics. For more information on UNDP’s work on armed violence prevention and small arms control, see our NEW WORLD MAP
UNDP, Norway pledge to reduce armed violence Oslo, 21 October 2009 — UNDP Administrator Helen Clark met with Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre today to discuss ways in which Norway and UNDP could work together to reduce armed violence, which kills more than 2,000 people every day worldwide, most of whom are civilians.Read more...
Watch a video about small arms control featuring Sara Sekkenes, Senior Advisor for the Conflict Team, to learn more about how small arms, landmines, and the legacy of war creates an environment that inhibits human development.
