The arms trade in the 1990s: Changing patterns, rising dangers

Arms trade statistics produced by various organisations point to a simple contraction, but the reality is that the arms trade has evolved into something new, not a smaller version of its old self. Draws on a wide variety of sources to examine three key parameters of the trade: the suppliers of arms, the various recipients and the commodities most in demand. Identifies features of the post cold war arms trade and points to emerging patterns which give cause for concern, including: an Asia region arms race driven by the economic interests of American, Russian and European suppliers; weapons technology transfer to the East Asian NICs; a new abundance of small and light weapons available to state and non state actors; major power disinterest in arms control. In a changing world security environment the arms trade will continue to affect the nature and incidence of armed conflict. Analysis of its transformation is essential, as is action by international policy makers to alleviate its most harmful consequences.