Arms Trade & Security

IPIS researches problematic transfers of arms and their logistics to contribute to prevention of irresponsible arms transfers that exacerbate violence, conflict and repression

For over two decades, IPIS has developed solid expertise on arms trade and related issues.  IPIS researchers have published detailed reports separately and in association with other partners, including as consultancy work for the United Nations and for Amnesty International, on problematic transfers of arms and their logistics. Case studies by IPIS have demonstrated how small arms, light weapons, major weapons systems and associated equipment are supplied and used to facilitate patterns of violence and violations of international law, creating instability and undermining development. In-depth data has been collected and analyses made of the intricacies of the arms supply-chain, brokering activities, means of transport, and the impact of poorly regulated and illicit transfers in order to improve the effectiveness of various arms control mechanisms and instruments.

IPIS research contributes to national and international initiatives that aim to prevent irresponsible arms transfers that exacerbate violence, conflict and repression, address weak controls on the physical movements of conventional arms through means of transport, routes, and borders, expose links between irresponsible and illicit arms flows and the exploitation of natural resources by State and non-State actors. IPIS helps building skills and institutional capacities through training materials and activities to improve arms trade control and carries out field research on arms trade and trafficking activities.