The International Action Network on Small Arms is the global network of civil society organisations working to stop the proliferation and misuse of small arms and light weapons (SALW). World attention is increasingly focused on the humanitarian impact of these weapons, and IANSA brings together the voices and activities of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and concerned individuals across the world to prevent their deadly effects.



Founded in 1998, IANSA has grown rapidly to more than 500 participant groups in nearly 100 countries, with representation from many gun-affected regions. IANSA is composed of a wide range of organisations concerned with small arms, including policy development organisations, national gun control groups, research institutes, aid agencies, faith groups, victims, human rights and community action organisations.



What does IANSA do?



IANSA aims to reduce small arms violence by:



- raising awareness among policymakers, the public and the media about the global threat to human security caused by small arms

- promoting the work of NGOs to prevent small arms proliferation through national and local legislation, regional agreements, public education and research

- fostering collaborative advocacy efforts, and providing a forum for NGOs to share experiences and build skills

- establishing regional and subject-specific small arms networks

- promoting the voices of victims in regional and global policy discussions



How does IANSA work?



IANSA is a democratic, participant-led organisation built on national, sub-regional and regional networks of civil society NGOs. This structure helps ensure that the network is driven by the needs and priorities of its participants. Operations are guided by the Facilitation Committee, composed of representatives from different regions and thematic areas and coordinated by a small Secretariat in London. A number of regional coordinators will also be appointed. Regional and sub-regional networks, once established, are encouraged to be self-sustaining. General Meetings are held every 2-3 years to discuss progress and strategy, most recently in July 2001 in New York during the United Nations Small Arms Conference.