by Jasper Wolf

Created on: May 25, 2007

The US should spend taxpayer money to reduce conventional arms worldwide, but only as a single participant in an international program aimed at reducing terrorism and promoting peace.

A program to buy and destroy conventional arms would have several potential benefits. It would provide a viable option to cash-poor, weapons-rich countries who might otherwise sell their weapons to anyone, including terrorists. It would also allow countries transitioning to a more peaceful period in their history to earn a "peace dividend" by divesting of a bloated arsenal. Aside from the financial rewards, arms reduction in such cases would, I believe, promote a more peaceful future for the country releasing its weapons.

By managing this program through an international organization, such as the United Nations, certain conditions could be more easily imposed and addressed. For example, countries receiving payment for their arms should be bound by international agreements confirming that they are not re-arming with newer weapons, or supporting recognized terrorist organizations.

Finally, by managing this program through an international organization, we would increase the likelihood of participation by anti-US countries, while minimizing the financial burden on US taxpayers. If successful, this program would be an international strike at the potential supply of weapons for terrorists. The program should be closely monitored for results, and if the intended benefits are not seen, we should demand changes, or withdraw US support.

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