Implications of the Trade

Addressing the economic, humanitarian and security implications of arms transfers -- including how those arms are used after transfer -- is unquestionably essential. The arms trade is unlike any other in that the commodity being traded is intentionally designed to have lethal uses. Harm to civilians -- be that death or injury, human rights abuse, foregone economic or personal development -- does occur. Children are pressed into service, becoming child solders. And the weapons themselves, especially SALW, are objects of illegal trafficking that fuel repressive regimes, terrorist activities, instability, and armed violence.  (Click links below to jump directly to specific topics.)  

harm to civilians - casualties, human rights, development | gender | child soldiers | arms trafficking | corruption | environment