What does the NRA’s skepticism towards the U.S., U.N. Arms Treaty mean for hunters?

Upon President Obama’s successful re-election last month, the U.S. supported the United Nation’s decision to renew discussions about a possible international treaty that would regulate the staggering $70 billion global arms trade.

While the U.S. government has been careful to assure the public that this will have no effect on American’s Second Amendment rights or on domestic ownership and gun sales, the National Rifle Association (NRA) remains highly skeptical of this law’s intent and ultimate enforcement.

The NRA has cited their concerns based on President Obama’s support for a semi-automatic weapon ban during his second presidential debate. The NRA in turn has stated that they would adamantly oppose any regulations within the U.N. treaty that would affect private firearm ownership within the U.S.

The NRA has a firm stance that they will do whatever they can to protect the Second Amendment, which clearly states that Americans have the right to bear arms. In doing so, they are attempting to work with both Democrats and Republicans to ensure that restrictions concerning private firearm ownership never become a reality.

Opposition to the treaty can breathe a small sigh of relief, as several participating U.N. nations have openly voiced their issues with the proposed treaty. Russia, a major firearms producer, expressed their concern this past summer, which effectively concluded negotiations.

However, the U.N. General Assembly’s Disarmament Committee has declared, in response to President Obama’s recent re-election, that a new round of talks be scheduled from March 18-28, 2013. Proponents of this treaty are citing hopes that the U.N. can create a balanced, strong and highly effective Arms Trade Agreement.

Amnesty International supports the U.N.’s treaty ambitions, believing that full cooperation from major weapons-producing countries, such as the U.S. and Russia, will stop weapons from entering the hands of those people who violate human rights.

Before any treaty is finalized, March’s upcoming talks would require a final text of the proposed treaty and ratification from each U.N. signatory before taking effect worldwide.

International and domestic statistical reports show that U.S. gun sales soared after President Obama’s re-election campaign, similar to their increased numbers after his first presidential win in 2008.

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