The treaty prohibits countries from exporting conventional weapons in violation of arms embargoes, or weapons that would be used for acts of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes or terrorism. But there is no ban on the supply of weapons to non-state entities such as rebel armies.
But, of course, everything is in the detail and the enforcement. It is down to the individual governments to "take appropriate measures to enforce national laws and regulations" implementing the treaty.
Conventional weapons are classed as tanks, armoured combat vehicles, artillery and missile systems, combat aircraft, attack helicopters, warships, small arms and light weapons.
It says explicitly, however, that states recognise "the legitimate political, security, economic and commercial interests … in the international trade in conventional arms". [SOMB emphasis]
"The treaty will not stop any of the arms exports of the world's largest arms-producing countries or arms companies," warned the UK-based Campaign Against the Arms Trade (CATT). "Countries such as the UK, the US, France and Russia will be able to continue selling to repressive regimes unhindered."
William Hague, said "This treaty will save lives and make the world a safer place.”
This from a man who wished to end the EU arms embargo on the Syrian National Army rebel force so Britain could supply it with weapons where innocent civilains would inevitably be killed by them. Such cant
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