A report reveals that Belgian-designed arms produced in Egypt are fueling human rights abuses, as manufacturers evade a 2014 arms embargo. Documented incidents show the misuse of these weapons by Egyptian authorities against civilians, including extrajudicial killings. The report calls out regulatory loopholes that allow arms exports to continue unchecked, highlighting the need for stronger international controls.
A recent report outlines the production of Belgian-designed weapons in Egypt, which are allegedly fueling human rights abuses despite a 2014 arms embargo against Cairo. Published by EgyptWide for Human Rights and the Coordination Nationale d’Action pour la Paix et la Démocratie, the report reveals that companies like FN Herstal evade this embargo by manufacturing arms abroad and trading intellectual property rights.
The report highlights the misuse of Belgian-made small arms and light weapons (SALW), including FN FAL rifles and FN MAG machine guns, by Egyptian authorities over the last decade. Through analyzing video footage and images, EgyptWide documented these weapons being utilized in extrajudicial killings and other violations against civilians in North Sinai during operations against Wilayat Sinai, involving forced displacement and torture.
In particular, the report references incidents in Kerdasa, Giza, where a Belgian machine gun was employed against civilians during a police operation in September 2013. Video evidence shows security forces engaging in a raid with little regard for civilian safety, illustrating a disregard for human rights and civilian protection during armed interventions.
Furthermore, the report asserts that Walloon arms manufacturers exploit regulatory loopholes, thereby enhancing Egypt’s arms production capabilities. This practice allows Egypt to export weapons to conflict areas such as Saudi Arabia, Sudan, and Somalia. The report emphasizes that existing regulations, such as the 2012 Walloon Decree and EU Common Position 2008/944/CFSP, inadequately address offshore arms production and intellectual property rights.
Consequently, the Belgian arms industry enjoys considerable latitude in exporting production materials and technologies, creating an environment with minimal regulatory oversight.
The report highlights the serious implications of unregulated arms production and trade, particularly how Belgian companies have contributed to human rights abuses in Egypt. By exploiting loopholes in the regulatory framework, these companies circumvent existing embargoes and allow the proliferation of arms in conflict zones. This raises concerns regarding the effectiveness of current international and national controls on arms exports and production, emphasizing the need for stringent regulations. If not addressed, the unchecked arms trade could lead to further violations of human rights and international laws. Overall, the findings underscore the urgent need for tightened regulations and accountability within the global arms industry.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
