ABSTRACT

During armed conflict a state loses control over weapons and their use in its territory. A vital part of peace-building is the re-establishment of this state control. The period after the end of warfare provides an opportunity for social change but is also characterised by several challenges concerning small arms and light weapons (SALW). There remains a prevalence of armed violence – such as banditry, domestic violence or human rights abuses – even if the conflict parties have signed a peace agreement. Moreover, there is the risk of warfare resuming: a re-eruption of the original conflict or new disputes emerging from the ashes of the old. Some of these acts of violence are influenced by the preceding war – not least by the diffusion of weapons – while others are particular to the post-conflict period. All forms of violence take a humanitarian toll and have the potential to decrease support for reconciliation and rebuilding. Understanding post-conflict violence and the role played by the diffusion of weapons is, therefore, a crucial step toward ensuring the success of peace-building.