Parliaments are the only bodies with authority to create and reform legislation, as well as to ratify international agreements. As democratically elected representatives, parliamentarians have access to a public space and as such a possibility to create debate and stimulate public opinion. Parliaments also serve as links with civil society and governments, thus assuring both the legality and legitimacy of policy initiatives.

The role of parliamentarians in small arms related work can be divided into, for example, three main functions:

To propose, review, and reform national legislation. Assuring that the domestic legislation framework regarding small arms offers the best possible solution to the problem of arms proliferation, is without doubt one of the most important parliamentary tasks. Adaptation of the domestic legislation to international standards is a fundamental measure in order to furnish efficient arms control with a solid legal basis.
To exercise control over their governments. Scrutiny of government activity is yet another central role for parliamentarians. Through questioning and debating the action – or non-action – of governments, parliamentarians can draw attention to failures in policy or shed light on issues that may have been overlooked by governments. This scrutiny also includes follow-up on government’s compliance with international commitments.
To generate social awareness and support among the public in general for normative positions reflected in the legislation. As opinion leaders and representatives of the people, parliamentarians play an important role to promote the public adherence to national legislative frameworks and to tackle the demand for arms and weapons among the various user groups in society.

The role of the Forum is to support parliamentarians in these endeavors, and provide a meeting space for parliamentarians to exchange opinions, information and lessons learned.