The German Institute for Democracy and Development (DIDE) Condemns Germany’s Decision to Resume Arms Sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE
The German Institute for Democracy and Development (DIDE) strongly condemns the recent decision by the German government to resume arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This decision is deeply concerning, as it undermines Germany’s commitment to promoting human rights, peace, and stability in the region.
Germany has long been recognized as a global leader in promoting human rights and advocating for responsible arms trade practices. The previous suspension of arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE was a positive step towards aligning Germany’s actions with its principles. It demonstrated a clear recognition of the human rights violations and devastating humanitarian crisis in Yemen, which has been exacerbated by the involvement of Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
By resuming arms sales to these countries, Germany risks contributing to the perpetuation of the conflict in Yemen and the associated human suffering. It also sends a contradictory message to the international community, undermining the efforts made by Germany and its allies to address the root causes of the crisis and foster peace and stability in the region.
The German Institute for Democracy and Development (DIDE) firmly believes that arms sales should only be conducted with the utmost consideration for human rights, international law, and the promotion of peace. We call on the German government to reconsider its decision and reinstate the arms sales ban to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, ensuring consistency with Germany’s longstanding commitment to human rights and ethical foreign policy.
In light of this concerning development, DIDE makes the following recommendations to the German government:
- Reinstate the Arms Sales Ban: Germany should immediately reinstate the ban on arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE. This will demonstrate a steadfast commitment to human rights and ethical foreign policy, and send a strong message against human rights abuses and the perpetuation of conflicts.
- Strengthen Arms Export Controls: The German government should undertake a comprehensive review of its arms export controls to ensure they are robust and effectively prevent arms from falling into the wrong hands or being used to commit human rights abuses. This includes strengthening monitoring mechanisms, enhancing risk assessments, and increasing transparency in the arms trade process.
- Engage in Diplomatic Efforts: Germany should actively engage in diplomatic efforts to promote peace, stability, and conflict resolution in the region. This includes supporting diplomatic negotiations and initiatives aimed at finding peaceful solutions to conflicts, such as the ongoing crisis in Yemen.
- Support Humanitarian Assistance: Germany should continue its commitment to providing humanitarian aid and assistance to alleviate the suffering of those affected by conflicts in the region. This support should prioritize meeting the urgent humanitarian needs of civilians, including access to food, healthcare, and shelter.
- Collaborate with International Partners: Germany should collaborate closely with its international partners, including European Union member states and relevant international organizations, to develop and enforce strict arms trade regulations and promote responsible arms export practices. This collective effort will strengthen the global commitment to human rights and contribute to peace and stability in conflict-affected regions.
As an institute dedicated to the principles of democracy, human rights, and sustainable development, DIDE remains committed to advocating for policies that promote peace, stability, and respect for human rights. We will continue to monitor developments closely and engage in constructive dialogue with relevant stakeholders to address the pressing concerns surrounding arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
We call on the German government to take immediate action to rectify this decision and demonstrate its unwavering commitment to upholding human rights and promoting peace in the region. The resumption of arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE undermines Germany’s credibility and tarnishes its reputation as a responsible global actor.
Germany has a moral obligation to prioritize human rights and the well-being of civilians over economic and political considerations. By selling arms to countries involved in the Yemen conflict, Germany risks becoming complicit in the violations of international humanitarian law and the exacerbation of the humanitarian crisis.
The German government must recognize that arms sales can have far-reaching consequences and should not be driven solely by economic interests. It is essential to prioritize human rights, peace, and stability when making decisions related to arms exports. By halting the sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Germany can take a principled stance against human rights abuses and contribute to de-escalating conflicts in the region.
DIDE acknowledges the complexity of the situation and the strategic considerations involved. However, we firmly believe that economic interests should not supersede human rights and ethical considerations. Germany has the opportunity to set an example for other nations by adopting a more stringent approach to arms exports and promoting responsible arms trade practices.
