The tenth anniversary of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) coming into force provides a unique opportunity for reflection on the impact and challenges of the Treaty to date. 

We took some time to talk with Roy Isbister and Elizabeth Kirkham from Saferworld’s Arms Unit and to reflect on their experience of working on the global treaty to regulate the international arms trade. The discussion explores Saferworld’s involvement in bringing the Treaty into existence, the main successes and challenges of the ATT since its adoption, and the progress they hope to see from states in the future. 

The next decade will bring new challenges for arms control. Saferworld, alongside civil society partners, will continue working to ensure the ATT does ultimately fulfil the promise of its object and purpose. Strategic funding partnerships are crucial for innovation, rapid response to crises, and for building the networks that create high-impact initiatives like the ATT.