The Development of National and Regional Reports on Arms Exports in the EU and South Eastern Europe
The Development of National and Regional Reports on Arms Exports in the EU and South Eastern Europe

Author(s): Author Not Specified
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense, Military policy
Published by: The South Eastern and Eastern Europe Clearinghouse for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SEESAC)
Keywords: Arms exports; Public transparency; National reports; Export controls; Parliamentary oversight
Summary/Abstract: This study analyses the production of national and regional reports on arms exports by the European Union (EU) member states and states in South Eastern Europe. It discusses the initial rationale for producing these reports before making a comparative analysis of the information they contain on arms export licences, arms exports and brokering licences. In particular, the study discusses the different formats used in these reports, the levels of transparency achieved and makes recommendations for possible future improvements. This study focuses on mechanisms of public transparency as opposed to intergovernmental transparency.1 Public transparency refers to the publishing of information that is freely available among the public at large. Intergovernmental transparency refers to the confidential exchange of information between governments. The exchange of information is not viewed as a goal in itself, but as a means to build confidence and enhance co-operation between states that regard participation as being in line with their national and international security interests. Exchange of export licence denials are examples of intergovernmental transparency in the sphere of arms exports. The main purpose of publishing national and regional reports on arms exports is to contribute to an understanding of how export criteria are being interpreted at the national level. This is intended to allow parliamentarians, the media, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), interested citizens and other states to monitor a government’s compliance with its national and international obligations in this area.2 To allow for an assessment of whether the government is upholding national, regional and international commitments relating to controls on the export of military goods and related items.

• Details
• Contents