NRA News at the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty Negotiations: Tom Mason - July 24

Published on July 26, 2012
Duration: 10:04

This video discusses the UN Arms Trade Treaty negotiations from the perspective of Tom Mason, representing the NRA. Key concerns include the broad definition of 'small arms and light weapons' which includes civilian arms, the inadequate mention of hunting and sport shooting in the preamble, and the potential for ammunition to be regulated. The treaty's language is described as 'slippery,' with potential implications for civilian ownership and the possibility of being cited in future lawsuits against manufacturers. The speaker expresses disappointment that civilian arms are not explicitly excluded and notes that while the preamble mentions human rights, this is often linked to calls for gun control.

Quick Summary

The UN Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) is criticized for its broad definition of 'small arms and light weapons,' which includes civilian firearms due to a lack of specific definition. Ammunition is covered under the term 'Munitions,' raising concerns about potential future restrictions. References to hunting and sport shooting are relegated to the unenforceable Preamble, and the treaty's language could impact civilian gun ownership and be used in legal challenges.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Treaty Draft Distribution and Initial Reaction
  2. 00:16Tom Mason's Initial Take on the Treaty
  3. 01:04UN's Broad Scope: Battle Tanks to Small Arms
  4. 01:14Lack of Definition for Small Arms and Light Weapons
  5. 01:26Civilian Ownership Included in Treaty Scope
  6. 01:50Inadequate Preamble References to Hunting/Sport
  7. 02:21Potential for Registration Requirements
  8. 02:34Slippery Language on Ammunition Regulation
  9. 03:35US Position on Ammunition Regulation
  10. 04:15Concerns About Rushing the Treaty
  11. 04:51Implications of US Treaty Approval
  12. 05:36Potential for Hostile Administrations and Court Citations
  13. 06:00Treaty's Role in Lawsuits Against Manufacturers
  14. 06:33Clause Allowing Stricter National Measures
  15. 06:51Ecuador's Suggestion to Ban Guns
  16. 07:10Human Rights as a Major Issue in the Treaty
  17. 07:20UN Special Rapporteur Barbara Frey's Report
  18. 08:04Recap: Civilian Ownership and Ammunition Still Included
  19. 08:10Next Steps: Debate, Negotiation, and Vote
  20. 08:25Path to the General Assembly
  21. 08:42Likelihood of Approval by Consensus
  22. 09:01US Stance and Avoiding Consensus Break
  23. 09:34The Dynamic of Not Wanting to Be the 'Bad Guy'
  24. 09:51President's Stance and Potential Trouble

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main concerns regarding the UN Arms Trade Treaty's definition of 'small arms and light weapons'?

A primary concern is the lack of a clear definition for 'small arms and light weapons' in the treaty. This ambiguity allows for a broad interpretation that can include civilian-owned firearms, rather than being limited to military-grade weapons, which is a significant point of contention for gun rights advocates.

How does the UN Arms Trade Treaty address ammunition?

The treaty uses the term 'Munitions,' which is interpreted broadly to include small arms ammunition for both military and civilian use. While specific language aims to regulate the export of these items, the broad definition raises concerns about potential future restrictions on ammunition availability.

What is the significance of the Preamble in the Arms Trade Treaty?

References to hunting, sport shooting, and antiques are placed in the treaty's Preamble. However, these statements are considered inadequate and unenforceable because Preamble clauses do not carry legal weight or 'clout' in international law, unlike the operative articles of the treaty.

Could the UN Arms Trade Treaty impact civilian gun ownership in the US?

Yes, there are concerns that the treaty's broad definitions and potential for future interpretation could impact civilian gun ownership. Provisions related to record-keeping might lead to registration requirements, and the treaty could be cited in legal challenges against firearms manufacturers.

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