斯德哥尔摩国际和平研究所-Arms-flows-to-the-conflict-in-Chad

Summary of ARMS FLOWS TO THE CONFLICT IN CHAD

I. Introduction

The regime of Idriss Déby, President of Chad, has been criticized for its undemocratic and corrupt nature, with the armed forces playing a central role in conflicts against various rebel factions since 2003. The conflict in Chad is closely linked to the situation in Sudan's Darfur region, and the violence has seen intermittent periods of intense fighting. The arms used in the conflict are generally not technologically advanced, with both government and rebel forces relying on small arms and light weapons (SALW) and general-purpose vehicles like Toyota Land Cruisers. The presence of light armoured vehicles, old tanks, and combat aircraft has significantly influenced the conflict's intensity. Arms transfers, even in small quantities, can have a substantial impact and may encourage the use of violence over dialogue.

II. Limiting Arms Supplies to Chad

• Arms Embargoes: There is no UN arms embargo on Chad, despite the potential for arms to be diverted to Darfur, which is under a UN embargo.
• EU Embargoes: The EU has imposed embargoes on arms exports to several conflict zones, but not on Chad. Some EU member states have denied export licences to Chad based on criteria related to human rights, internal conflict, and risk of arms diversion.
• Transparency Issues: Despite some reports from EU states, there is limited transparency on how governments assess the impact of arms exports on the conflict. The process for granting export licences to Chad remains unclear.
• Romania and Belgium: Romania denied an export licence in 2006 due to the risk of arms fueling conflict, while Belgium supplied armoured vehicles to Chad via France, which were not properly tracked or reported.
• Other Countries: China, the USA, Israel, and others have provided arms to Chad, often with political and economic motivations.

III. Arms Supplies to the Government of Chad

• Ukraine: The most significant arms supplier to Chad, providing combat helicopters, aircraft, and rifles between 2004 and 2008.
• France: Maintained a strong military presence in Chad, providing logistical and intelligence support. France reported limited arms exports, but there is evidence of indirect support through Belgium.
• Libya: Supplied military aid, including ammunition and aircraft, to the Chadian government.
• China: Increased arms cooperation with Chad following the country's recognition in 2006. China supplied light armoured vehicles and there are unconfirmed reports of military advisors and equipment shipments.
• Israel: A major arms supplier, with evidence of arms being used in the conflict. Israel also provided military services and training.
• Switzerland: Exported a PC-9 light aircraft in 2006, which was later armed and used in attacks. In response, Switzerland imposed sanctions and tightened its export regulations.
• Bulgaria and Serbia: Exported SALW and ammunition to Chad, with Bulgaria also supplying self-propelled howitzers.
• Portugal: Exported military equipment related to aircraft, with reported values of €2.6 million and €0.6 million.

IV. Arms Supplies to Rebel Forces

• Sudanese Support: Rebel forces in Chad have received weapons from the Sudanese Government, including SALW and multi-barrelled rocket launchers. Sudan is suspected of supplying these weapons despite its denials.
• Regional Weapon Pools: Rebel forces also access weapons from the broader regional arms pool, making it difficult to track the exact sources and quantities.
• African Union Findings: In 2006, an African Union mission found that many of the arms seized from rebels in Chad were new and of Chinese origin, suggesting possible diversion from Sudan to Chad.
• Chadian Government's Concerns: President Déby has expressed concerns about Sudan's support for rebel groups and has used this issue to engage with China, which has been a key arms supplier to Sudan.

Key Points

• Impact of Arms Transfers: Even small arms supplies can significantly influence the conflict dynamics and increase the risk of human rights abuses.
• Transparency and Accountability: There is a lack of transparency in arms transfers to Chad, especially regarding the flow of weapons to Sudan and the potential for diversion.
• Political and Economic Motivations: Arms exports to Chad are often driven by political alliances and economic interests, such as access to oil resources.
• Regional and International Involvement: Multiple countries, including Ukraine, France, Libya, China, and Israel, have been involved in supplying arms to Chad, either directly or indirectly.

Conclusion

The arms flows to Chad are complex and multifaceted, involving both direct and indirect suppliers. These transfers are often justified by political and economic interests but raise concerns about their contribution to conflict escalation and human rights violations. Greater transparency and accountability in arms export policies are needed to better understand and manage their impact on regional stability.