THE HUMANITARIAN LIMITS TO WEAPONS TRANSFER

The uncontrolled proliferation of arms and indiscriminate means and methods of warfare fuels conflicts, human rights abuses, and humanitarian crisis, undermining international peace and security.Despite existing international and regional instruments, irresponsible arms transfer continue to cause unnecessary sufferings, displacement and instability highlighting the need for stricter controls and accountability to ensure compliance with international humanitarian law.This paper examines the humanitarian limits on weapon transfer under the International Humanitarian Law focusing on the Arms Trade Treaty, Anti-personnel mine ban, and Treaty on the Prohibition of nuclear weapons among others, discussing their provisions on risk assessment, diversion prevention, and victim assistance.It is aimed to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the complex challenges and opportunities in regulating weapons development, use, deployment and transfer.Case studies from West Africa illustrate the consequences of irresponsible arms transfers, emphasizing the need for strict border control and accountability.As such, it emphasizes the role of legal review of new means and methods especially as new tactics continue to emerge so as to prevent the development and deployment of weapons that violate International Humanitarian Law principles, such as autonomous weapons and other emerging technologies.In conclusion, the paper highlights the role of international cooperation and responsible arms trade practices in promoting human security and preventing humanitarian suffering.