Ensuring effective implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty: a national assessment methodology

The first international treaty of its kind, the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) sets out rules to govern the international transfer of conventional arms. Many states – without significant experience of, and exposure to, the international arms trade – may find that the ATT demands significant changes to existing laws and practices. Where should those states begin? How can they ensure effective implementation of the ATT? How can states fulfil the ATT’s legal requirements and comply with its binding provisions?

This purpose of this national assessment methodology is to enable current or prospective States Parties to the ATT gain a full understanding of how their existing laws, regulations, institutions, mechanisms and practices are, or are not, in compliance with the ATT. This methodology will help states to identify what steps should be taken, and in what sequence, in order to close implementation gaps in a cost-effective way.

We recommend consideration of this methodology: by governments that are in the process of complying with the ATT; by governments that are considering providing ATT compliance assistance to other states; by relevant regional organisations and any other stakeholders with an interest in better ATT implementation.

Get started with the ATT National Assessment Methodology

Read Liberia’s assessment report on its compliance with the ATT

Read the Expert Group on ATT Implementation briefing series

“The Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) national assessment methodology... will enable current or prospective States Parties to the ATT to gain a full understanding of how their existing laws, regulations, institutions, mechanisms and practices are, or are not, in compliance with the ATT. ”

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