On 2 November, Seychelles became the 78th State Party to the Arms Trade Treaty. Seychelles was one of the first States to sign onto the treaty upon its opening for signature at the United Nations in June of 2013.
Control Arms welcomes Seychelles’ ratification and the positive steps taken towards implementation. We hope that it will catalyse further adoption in Africa and across the world.
“By ratifying the ATT, Seychelles has done Africa – and climes further afield – proud, ‘ said Robert Mtonga, African Campaigner for Control Arms. ‘As African campaigners, we urge those States yet to ratify or accede to the ATT to follow Seychelles’ footsteps swiftly.’
Another African Campaigner, Nounou Booto Meeti, agreed. ‘Seychelles is furthering our goal of universalisation by increasing the number of States Parties from Africa, ‘ she said. ‘As we near the end of the UN First Committee, States Parties should build on this momentum by encouraging more States to sign.’
