This year’s thematic discussion focused on gender and gender-based violence. In this regard, the Czech Republic aligned itself with statements delivered by Argentina and the EU, recalling that the ATT is the first arms regulation treaty which recognizes the link between arms transfers and gender-based violence.

Under the Latvian Presidency, the treaty reached a symbolic milestone of 100 States Parties. The continuing growth of membership was welcomed as a sign of vitality and continuing relevance of this important multilateral instrument. However, the Czech Republic emphasized in its statement that some of the major arms exporters still remain outside the treaty.

The ATT entered into force on 24 December 2014 and its purpose is to regulate the international trade in conventional arms, prevent the misuse of arms, and thereby contribute to the international peace and security. As of 30 October 2019, a total of 104 states have ratified the treaty.