In March 2025, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (UN OHCHR) warned that, amid the highest number of violent conflicts since World War II, arms transfers are contributing to prolonging conflicts, internal repression, and serious human rights and IHL violations.
Research from PAX shows that 15 of the largest arms producers in the world (based in Europe or the US) continue to supply weapons to such high-risk destinations, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Israel. A majority of them also provide key components or services for the development and maintenance of nuclear weapons, the most destructive and inhumane weapons ever made. Companies also continue to be involved in the production of white phosphorus, the use of which risks immense human suffering, especially when used in populated areas. And while in the last decades there has been a marked reduction in the production of cluster munition and anti-personnel mines, this trend now appears to be reversing.
As key actors in the global economy, financial actors have substantial leverage over companies’ business activities. As such, they can and should exert their influence to drive corporate respect for human rights within the arms industry.
