Action on Armed Violence (AOAV) is a London-based research and advocacy organization that works to reduce the impact of armed violence, particularly explosive weapons, on civilians. It monitors and records the casualties from these incidents using English-language media reports and uses this data to advocate for stronger international laws, norms, and practices to protect civilians in conflict zones. AOAV also researches and campaigns on a range of weapon-related issues, from commercially manufactured weapons to improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Key activities and focus areas
Data and research: AOAV monitors and records civilian and military casualties caused by explosive weapons through a daily analysis of English-language media sources. This data, which includes details on the type of weapon, location, and reported user, is often cited by organizations like the UN and the ICRC.
Advocacy: The organization advocates for international agreements and political declarations that aim to prevent the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, citing its data to highlight the disproportionate harm to civilians.
Weapon research: AOAV conducts research into various types of weapons, including commercially manufactured and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
International law and norms: A significant part of its work involves building recognition of the rights of victims and survivors of armed violence and strengthening international laws and standards on conventional weapons. AOAV has been instrumental in supporting various disarmament treaties, such as the Anti-personnel Mine Ban Treaty and the Arms Trade Treaty.
Support for victims: The organization also focuses on supporting victims and strengthening communities affected by armed violence.
Technology and data: AOAV is involved in identifying and promoting best practices for casualty recording worldwide, including using modern technology like social media and mobile phones to better understand the impact of armed violence.