Arms Flows to the Conflict in Chad

It is estimated that arms imports by Chad were five times higher in 2004–2008 than in 1999–2003. The rebel forces in Chad have obtained weapons from the Sudanese Government and from the large pool of weapons available throughout the region, although accurate information is scarce, especially about transfers of small arms and light weapons.

Several countries have published information about the arms they have exported to Chad, but it remains unclear whether and how governments have assessed the effect of arms exports on the violence in Chad and Sudan. Discussion on the desirability of arms exports to conflict areas would be facilitated by greater openness on all aspects of arms transfers.