Brussels, 23/01/2014 (Agence Europe) - The European Parliament has given its approval, in committee, to the ratification by EU member states of the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty.
Voting on 21 January, MEPs from the international trade committee recommended that the European Parliament authorise the 28 EU member states to ratify the UN agreement on trade in conventional arms, which sets binding international rules in order to eradicate the illicit trade of weapons globally and prevent arms flows in conflict regions.
“The Arms Trade Treaty is a huge achievement in beginning to regulate the global arms trade. This is a $22 billion industry which urgently needs global monitoring, as the trade in arms often has a devastating effect on peace, security and human rights in some of the world's most vulnerable countries. I hope member states will ratify the treaty as soon as possible to show global leadership in implementing the treaty and encouraging some of the world's biggest players in the arms trade, including the arms industry, to follow our lead in promoting peace, security and transparent, responsible trade”, said rapporteur David Martin (S&D, UK).
The EU cannot sign and ratify the Arms Trade Treaty since only member states can be parties to UN treaties - but, as the treaty touches upon aspects of common commercial policy, falling under the exclusive competence of the EU, it requires the consent of the European Parliament. The authorisation is due to be put to the vote in plenary - probably during the first plenary session in February.
The Arms Trade Treaty was adopted on 2 April 2013 through a resolution of the UN General Assembly. Three states voted against the Treaty (North Korea, Iran and Syria) and 23 abstained (including China, India and Russia). In mid-December 2013, 115 countries signed the Arms Trade Treaty but only nine have ratified it (Antigua and Barbuda, Costa Rica, Grenada, Guyana, Iceland, Mali, Mexico, Nigeria, Trinidad and Tobago). In order to enter into force, the treaty must be ratified by 50 states. (EH/transl.fl)