DSEI is one of the world’s largest arms fairs. It takes place in London’s Docklands every two years, last taking place on 14- 17 September 2021.
DSEI 2021 featured over 1,600 exhibitors, including most of the biggest arms companies. Weapons on display ranged from small arms and armoured vehicles, to combat aircraft and warships.
The companies marketed their wares to more than 30,000 attendees. These included official military and security delegations from around the world, including many that represent human rights abusing regimes and countries involved in conflict.
The arms fair is organised by Clarion Events and the government’s arms sales unit, Defence & Security Exports, a civil service body that exists solely to promote arms sales. Government support is crucial to the success of DSEI and its continued existence.
DSEI takes place behind heavily protected security fences and police lines – designed to allow arms dealers to trade their wares unhindered by transparency or public protest.
This is where those who profit from war, repression and injustice do business.
And this is where we can stop them.
