The impact of civil society on global efforts to advance the arms trade treaty: The perspective of a Costa Rican diplomat

The road to the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty was not only paved with compromises among Member States, but also with the active support and collaboration of many different stakeholders, including civil society organizations (CSOs). As delegates and representatives struggled with the balance between ideals and reality, peace and national interest, as well as dream and deed, so too did global CSOs. As inferred from the words of the poet Antonio Machado, a road is shaped by the trails marked by its travellers. The travellers of the road that led to the adoption of this Treaty included not only the national delegates, but also those who stood as partners in the journey.

Related Subject(s): Peacekeeping and Security

Countries: Costa Rica