In yet another bolt from the blue, President Donald Trump jolted the liberal pro-gun control community in the US and elsewhere in the world with his decision to withdraw from a UN Arms Trade treaty that regulates international sale of conventional weapons. This is the latest example of the Trump administration’s disdain for international agreements honoured by previous presidents regardless of their political affiliation. Over the years, we’ve witnessed Trump abandon the Iran Nuclear Deal, the arms treaty with Russia and the Paris Climate accord. All of this — only to please his most loyal political constituents who strongly believe in Trump’s unilateral vision of the world and his promise to make ‘America great again.’
By rescinding the Obama-era treaty on weapons trade, Trump has definitely pleased his supporters at the annual conclave of the National Rifles Association in Indianapolis, but the move is another misguided step that threatens global safety. While proclaiming himself as the saviour of gun rights, before a cheering crowd of NRA head honchos and supporters, the President sent a clear message to the world that his administration was willing to distance itself from every multilateral initiative that makes the world a safer place. The move clearly puts the United States in the group of countries which have declined to sign the treaty and are often portrayed as a threat to international peace.
But should we be surprised that this comes at a pro-gun rights event? After all, the next presidential election is around the corner and Trump has maintained a close association with the gun lobby through much of his presidency. Let’s not forget, the Trump campaign bagged $30 million from the NRA during the 2016 presidential election. This recent concession to those who support the free flow of weapons is nothing but another attempt by the US President to bolster his re-election campaign at the expense of global peace and security.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 28th, 2019.
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