EVERY day, more than 1,500 people die as a result of armed violence and conflict. That’s more than one person a minute.
Next month, Prime Minister David Cameron and other world leaders will be meeting at the United Nations to agree a new treaty which would help to save these lives.
A new international, legally-binding arms trade treaty would, for the first time ever, ensure the arms trade is globally regulated and that the transfer of weapons is closely monitored and transparent.
But this new law can only be effective if it stops weapons ending up in places where there’s a big risk that they could be used in human rights abuses and atrocities. And it must include all weapons and ammunition that can be used for military and security purposes.
We invite everyone who would like to see a truly effective treaty to come and sign our petition on the arms trade on Saturday in the town centre.
ANDREW HEMMING
Vice chairman, Salisbury Amnesty International
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here