Conflict and the Global Arms Trade

INTRODUCTION – Why is this a Global Justice Issue?

The world cannot afford war. People cannot stand by while the numbers of war and environmental refugees soar, while poverty spreads like an epidemic and money for education, health, job training and other needed services are stolen to pay for weapons.

Conflict is an issue that we cannot seem to escape, whether it be a personal disagreement or turning on the news to hear about wars that are taking place in the world. Peace and stability are central to sustainable development. Whilst some regions enjoy sustained levels of peace, others fall into seemingly endless cycles of conflict and violence often propped up by arms being supplied by countries not directly involved in the conflict. Not to mention proxy wars-wars instigated by major powers which do not themselves become involved.