Up in arms: The arms trade is wreaking havoc around the globe, and Canada is part of it

Authors

Erika Simpson, University of Western Ontario (Western University)Follow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-1-2018

Journal

London Free Press

Abstract

In her article, Erika Simpson critiques the global arms trade, highlighting its detrimental impact on global stability and human rights. She points out Canada's significant role as a major arms exporter, particularly noting the controversial sale of light armoured vehicles to Saudi Arabia amid concerns over human rights abuses in Yemen. Simpson draws parallels between the arms trade and historical injustices like the slave trade, arguing that the proliferation of weapons exacerbates conflicts and human suffering worldwide. She calls for more stringent adherence to international treaties, such as the Arms Trade Treaty, to regulate and curb the flow of weapons, emphasizing the ethical imperative for Canada and other nations to act transparently and responsibly in their arms exports. Simpson's analysis underscores the moral dilemmas and geopolitical implications associated with the arms trade, urging greater accountability in preventing the misuse of weapons to perpetrate violence and atrocities globally.

Notes

First published in London Free Press.