Brexit and the future of UK arms transfer controls

As the UK moves towards exit from the EU, Saferworld examines the implications for UK strategic trade control in a new report and accompanying comment piece.

We consider how - from sanctions and embargoes to an extensive EU control lists for military and dual-use goods and much more besides - UK and EU controls are closely entwined. Much needs to be done to ensure that UK still has its full suite of transfer control measures in place on the day it leaves the EU. 

The report highlights steps that the UK should take to safeguard close post-Brexit cooperation and coordination with the EU. This will help sustain the protection of human rights and reduce the risk that UK and EU arms transfer controls could drift apart due to increased competition for export markets.

Read the accompanying comment piece: Will Brexit lower arms transfer control standards?

Read more about our work on effective arms control.