2024.02.20_ICRC remarks_ATT WGETI Sub-WG on Arts 67_FOR VALIDATION

Microsoft Word - 2024.02.20_ICRC remarks_ATT WGETI Sub-WG on Arts 67_FOR VALIDATION.docx Statement by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Arms Trade Treaty Working Group on Effective Treaty Implementation (WGETI) Sub-working Group on Articles 6 & 7 20 February 2024 Thank you, Mr Chair, The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) welcomes the latest draft chapter of the Volu. [...] As previously indicated in our comments on chapters 1 and 2 of the Voluntary Guide, the ICRC considers that the guidance offered can best facilitate progress towards the realization of the ATT’s humanitarian objective to reduce human suffering by describing practical questions and challenges and providing practice-oriented direction to States Parties on how to address these in their implementation. [...] In this regard the ICRC recalls that the ATT must be implemented in a consistent, objective and non- discriminatory manner (Art 5.1, ATT), and that conducting a robust IHL risk assessment under Art 7 is paramount to achieving the humanitarian purpose of the ATT, including when exporting to close trading partners and trusted political or militaries allies. [...] this connection, we welcome the reference to the obligation to respect and ensure respect for IHL, which States Parties to the ATT must take into account in the implementation of their obligations under Articles 6 & 7 (§27). [...] - In the context of risk mitigation, the ICRC welcomes the recognition that States Parties should conduct a proactive and realistic assessment of the likely impact of such measures (§53).