European governments are well aware of the objections to the arms trade. Indeed, most have legislation which restricts the flow of arms to certain countries. Yet arms export is one of the very few economic areas that is not included in European Union regulations. Consequently, individual countries have their own legislation on arms trade. However, restrictions are easily forgotten when a military order is placed.
National interests tend to carry more weight than the well-being of people in far away countries.
Arms exports can also be politically motivated. By the sale of arms the supplying country can influence which country in a region becomes the strongest military power. By arming governments of their choice, the countries with the most highly developed arms industries can influence the political balance all over the world. It is a long-term strategy, because an importing country will stay dependent on its supplier for spare parts and modernization. With their different specializations they form a platform that by publication and political action tries to stop the flow of arms.