The impact of proliferation of small arms on human security in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia: the case of Gondar City

This research examines the impacts of small arms proliferation on human security in Gondar City, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia. The researcher employs a qualitative research methodology, incorporating both primary and secondary data sources. The researcher conducted interviews with government officials and city residents. The study's findings indicate that small arms significantly contribute to human insecurity, leading to higher mortality rates, forced displacements, and economic crises. Factors including political instability, ineffective governance, the dissolution of the Amhara Special Force, illicit arms trafficking, the city's geographical proximity to Sudan and Eritrea, and a prevailing culture of small arms drive the common presence of small arms in the city. Kidnapping, murder, and robbery incidents have significantly increased, indicating an escalation of armed conflicts and criminal activities, particularly after the 2020 Northern Ethiopia conflict. Political instability, the existence of weak and corrupt security structure have exacerbated the situation. The effects on the economy and society include business closures, fear which have disrupted daily life and eroded public safety. In spite of Ethiopia's ratification of international conventions on arms control, poor law enforcement and weak legislation have allowed illegal arms to proliferate in the city.