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On 31 January 2012, representatives in the Flemish Parliament's Committee for Foreign Policy, European Affairs and International Cooperation commenced discussions about a Flemish Arms Trade Act. This act should determine the rules for Flemish export, import and transit of arms and military equipment. Furthermore, a European directive on this matter (2009/43/EC) should also be transposed into Flemish legislation.
Hearing sessions in the Committee (including a presentation by the Flemish Peace Institute) took place on 28 February 2012 and 6 March 2012. Further discussion is on the agenda of the Committee on 8 May 2012.
Two texts are on the table: a proposal for a Flemish Parliament act from parliamentary representatives, and a draft act from the Flemish Government. Based on its expertise, the Peace Institute was asked for advice concerning the proposal for an act as well as the preliminary draft of an act. The Institute also formulated an advice concerning the eventual draft of an act that the government submitted in parliament. All advices rendered are by consensus of the Board of Directors of the Peace Institute.
Proposal of Arms Trade Act by Bart Caron, Filip Watteeuw and Mieke Vogels
Draft of Arms Trade Act by the Flemish Government
The Flemish Peace institute adopts a clear principle when formulating its opinion: peace and security are well served by a proper regulation of the arms trade through strict legislation, efficient implementation and effective control. Coherent and precise controls on the arms trade also ensure legal certainty for the companies involved.
Click here for more information about the Peace Institute's research into arms trade and arms production. |