An Air Force MQ-9A Reaper taxis in preparation for a mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The MQ-9A’s primary mission is a hunter-killer against emerging targets to achieve joint force commander objectives. (U.S. Air Force photo)

Earlier this month, 19 civil society organizations, including 9 members of the European Forum on Armed Drones, raised concerns about US-led initiative on the export and subsequent use of armed and strike-enabled aerial vehicles.

The statement highlights several issues around the risks and limitations posed by the US’ Joint Declaration, most concerning about how these proposals may contain standards that are lower than what international law already requires. Additionally, the statement makes key recommendations for States engaging in this initiative, highlighting the need for meaningful consultation with a wide range of stakeholders. The blog ‘Just Security’ featured a post on the civil society call here, and a link to the joint statement can be found here (in English) or here (in Spanish).

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