Small arms: Destruction

Destruction is an effective method of reducing the actual number of weapons on the illicit market, as well as the potential supply of weapons to illicit markets. In contrast to other methods of disposal such as sale or gift, destruction ensures that small arms and light weapons will not find their way (back) into illicit circuits. Destroying weapons can thus build confidence in overall efforts to prevent, combat and eradicate their illicit trade.

Destruction can involve surplus stocks from armed forces or law enforcement, or weapons relinquished by the civilian population as part of a weapons collection programme or recovered in crime.