United Arab Emirates - Q&A - (15 Dec. 2021)

Q: A new report by the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) reveals war crimes committed by the United Arab Emirates in Yemen. Does the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which has a seat on the Interministerial Commission for the Study of Military Equipment Exports (CIEEMG), support all French arms exports to the UAE, even though they may be used in conflicts in which civilian populations are targeted, in violation of the Arms Trade Treaty, or in violation of embargos (as in the case of Libya)?

A: Our arms exports are subject to strict interministerial controls. Any permits issued must be in strict compliance with France’s international obligations, particularly the Arms Trade Treaty, and with the EU’s common position.