In 2021, the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), Conflict Armament Research (CAR), and the Stimson Center developed a Diversion Analysis Framework (DAF), an analytical tool designed to help unpack the problem of diversion. This virtual event launched the first of a series of case studies drawing on findings from CAR’s field investigations of weapon diversion in conflict-affected locations to illustrate how the DAF can be applied to real-world cases. The case study also explores what measures States that have suspected or detected diversion cases have introduced to create or strengthen an ‘enabling environment’ to better prevent, mitigate, and address the issue.

Strengthening Shared Understanding on the Impact of the Arms Trade Treaty in Addressing Risks of Diversion in Arms Transfers is a joint research endeavor by the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), Conflict Armament Research (CAR), and the Stimson Center. The objective of the research is to enhance knowledge and facilitate dialogue among States to strengthen shared understanding on the impact of the Arms Trade Treaty in addressing risks of diversion in arms transfers, and to identify options and avenues for more effective policies and practices under the Treaty moving forward.