In collaboration with the Stimson Center and the Stanley Foundation, the Permanent Mission of Finland to the United Nations hosted a luncheon and panel discussion entitled “UNSCR 1540 
Implementation in the Americas: A Model for Success.” The panel featured Ambassador Claude Heller, Permanent Representative of Mexico to the UN and chairman of the 1540 Committee, Ambassador Albert Ramdin, Assistant Secretary General of the Organisation of American States (OAS), and Mr. O’Neil Hamilton, 1540 Regional Coordinator to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The panel was chaired by Dr. Janne Taalas, Deputy Permanent Representative of Finland to the United Nations.
The panelists discussed the role of the OAS, CARICOM, and the Central American Integration System (SICA) in the implementation of Resolution 1540 and noted that these regional organizations have assisted member states in taking important steps toward compliance with Resolution 1540. Ambassador Ramdin noted that “OAS is proud to partner with the Stimson Center,” and the work done in the “Caribbean region is an excellent example of how a sub-regional approach can open paths to assisting states meet their obligation under UN Resolution 1540.” He also acknowledged that a similar model is currently being considered under the auspices of SICA. According to O’Neil Hamilton, “the role of NGOs in implementing 1540 in the Americas cannot be understated.”
To read Ambassador Heller’s remarks please click here:
To read Ambassador Ramdin’s remarks please click here:
To read the OAS press release “Assistant Secretary General of the OAS Calls for increased awareness of UN Security Council Resolution 1540” please click here:
To view the Stimson Center’s latest report on the region, “WMD, Drugs, and Criminal Gangs in Central America: Leveraging Nonproliferation Assistance to Address Security/Development Needs With UN Security Council Resolution 1540,” authored by Stimson Senior Associate Brian Finlay, please click here.