Brussels (Brussels Morning) – Amnesty International and the French-speaking League of Human Rights criticize Walloon weapons for their role in global human rights abuses, citing irresponsible exports and lack of transparency. They urge stricter controls and transparency reforms to align with Flanders’ measures.
What criticisms does Amnesty International level against Wallonia’s export practices?
Walloon weapons are still used to commit war crimes and human rights violations in several countries around the world. This is the criticism of the seventh report of the Observatory on Walloon weapons, drawn up by Amnesty International and the French-speaking League of Human Rights. For example, civilians were killed by military or security services in Nigeria, Indonesia and Brazil, among others, with weapons “made in Wallonia”.
Why does the Observatory report highlight irresponsibility and opacity?
“Over the years, there have been two constants in the granting of licenses for Walloon weapons: irresponsibility and opacity,” regrets François Graas, one of the authors of the report.
Irresponsibility, because despite various binding texts, weapons are still sent to countries where the risk of human rights violations is high. And opacity, because Wallonia often only provides very late and incomplete information on the subject. This includes, among other things, the final destination.
What impact do FN machine guns have on Nigeria’s military capabilities?
Amnesty is referring to the recent sale of FN machine guns to Nigeria. The weapons are being mounted on aircraft and helicopters in the United States, the country listed as the recipient, according to the organization.
What are the key recommendations for improving export license processes?
Amnesty urges the MR and Les Engagés to give greater priority to respect for human rights when granting export licenses for weapons during the next legislature, as already included in a Walloon decree.
Furthermore, more transparency is needed in publishing annual reports more quickly. The next government must also guarantee real independence of the advisory committee on licence applications. This committee is chaired by the top executive of Wallonia-Brussels International (WBI) and the Agence wallonne à l’exportation (AWEX). The question with such a chair is whether the priority lies with export or with respect for human rights, thought Stan Brabant, another co-author of the report.
For Amnesty, Wallonia can draw inspiration from the measures that Flanders has already taken.
According to the report, arms exports from Wallonia will amount to 365.1 million in 2023, or 3 percent more than the previous year. Exports of powders and explosives rose by 27 per cent in one year to 47.3 million.
