source-library/imperialism/arms_deals.md

Arms Deals

Arms deals and similar forms of military aid create, prolong, and intensify conflict.

• CATO: Thrall and Dorminey 18
  • Arms sales make conflict more likely.
  • Recipients of new weapons feel more confident about launching attacks or because changes in the local balance of power can fuel tensions and promote preventive strikes by others.
  • Arms sales can also prolong and intensify ongoing conflicts and erode regional stability
  • Some cited studies:
    • Sub-Saharan Africa study: “arms transfers are significant and positive predictors of increased probability of war.’”
    • Africa study: "Weapons imports are essential additives in this recipe for armed conflict and carnage.”