Response to Sec of State Kerry's Statement on Arms Trade Treaty

Statement from Frank Jannuzi, Deputy Executive Deputy of Amnesty International USA on the Arms Trade Treaty announcement from Sec. of State John Kerry, just days in advance of the UN Global Arms Trade Treaty Conference which convenes on March 18 in New York:

“Secretary Kerry’s statement affirms Washington's support for a global arms trade treaty that will have important humanitarian benefits and has the potential to prevent serious human rights violations. The treaty talks opening soon in New York present an historic opportunity to reduce the flow of weapons and ammunition into the hands of serial human rights abusers, " Jannuzi said.
Addressing the 2nd Amendment issues raised by critics of the treaty, Jannuzi said, "The ATT will have zero, zilch, nada impact on the 2nd Amendment rights of U.S. citizens. The President must not be cowed or intimidated by the US gun lobby and the NRA.
"The unfettered trade of conventional arms has contributed to the deaths of more than 500,000, the displacement of millions, widespread rape, and the recruitment and exploitation of children as soldiers. Global arms trade must be regulated, and the United States -- the world's largest exporter -- should lead the way."