Synergies Between the Arms Trade Treaty and UNSCR 1540

The Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) and UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1540 (2004) are two seemingly separate but interrelated regimes that impose important security obligations on Member States. Both the ATT and UNSCR 1540 provide unique opportunities for national capacity building and assistance to strengthen national institutions and enhance global cooperation surrounding the trade in conventional weapons and dual-use items.

The Arms Trade Treaty, which focuses on conventional arms, and UNSCR 1540, which focuses on dual-use items, aim to manage, regulate, and promote legitimate trade, while working to prevent illicit trafficking. Both instruments seek to facilitate and enhance trade effectiveness without undermining legitimate trade.

The synergies between the implementation of UNSCR 1540 and the ATT are reflected in thematic and reporting overlaps, and provide significant opportunities for capacity-building assistance. This short report examines the synergies between the ATT and UNSCR 1540 in terms of scope, objectives, challenges, and opportunities.

Subscription Options

* indicates required

Research Areas

Pivotal Places

Publications & Project Lists

38 North: News and Analysis on North Korea