Division 2.4.1 Sponsorship programme

Because of a lack of funds, many developing countries struggle to be represented at UN PoA review conferences by their key officials dealing with SALW issues. The Union could fund a sponsorship programme for a selected group of most-affected countries in order to enable the participation of those officials in RevCon3.

Activities:

• UNODA will manage travel to and accommodation at RevCon3 (not the Preparatory Committee earlier in 2018) for up to 20 participants. Participants will be selected by the EEAS upon recommendation by UNODA, including its regional centres. In principle, selected officials should be designated UN PoA national points of contact. Other criteria for selection include gender considerations, timely submission of a national report, active participation in regional conferences or thematic symposia and knowledge of and experience in the topics at hand. During the RevCon3, UNODA will set up a meeting with the sponsored participants and delegations from the Union and its Member States.

Results:

• RevCon3 deliberations enriched by the expertise of those who deal directly with issues of SALW from affected countries who usually cannot afford to attend the RevCon;

• Greater networking opportunities for developing-country officials, including key representatives of civil society organisations who deal with SALW issues;

• Possible synergies with side events and training activities related to RevCon3.