Flying the Flag: Arming the World (1994)
Flying the Flag: Arming the World, a documentary by John Pilger, delves into the magnitude of the British arms industry—a sector that operates in secrecy, supplying weapons to dictatorships and corrupt regimes worldwide. Released in 1994, this film sheds light on the ethical dilemmas and geopolitical implications of arms deals.
The British Arms Industry:
At the close of the 20th century, the British arms industry stood as one of the largest manufacturing sectors in the nation. However, much of its dealings occurred behind closed doors, away from public scrutiny. Flying the Flag exposes the machinery that fuels this industry, revealing the consequences of its actions.
Deals with Controversial Regimes:
The documentary follows the trail of arms sales to countries embroiled in conflict and human rights abuses:
- Iraq: Despite international sanctions, British arms found their way to Iraq during Saddam Hussein’s regime.
- Saudi Arabia: The UK maintained lucrative arms deals with Saudi Arabia, a country known for its oppressive policies.
- Iran: The film explores the complexities of arms sales to Iran, a nation grappling with internal strife.
- Indonesia: Pilger interviews former Minister of Defence Alan Clark regarding Hawk aircraft sent to Indonesia. These planes were suspected to have been used in East Timor, despite official denials.
The Paris Arms Fair:
Pilger travels to Paris, where he visits an arms fair. Here, he engages British salesmen in conversations about missiles and a new cluster bomb. The fair becomes a microcosm of the global arms trade, where profit often trumps humanitarian concerns.
The Trident Nuclear Submarine:
Back in Britain, Pilger focuses on the Trident nuclear submarine program. He argues that the exorbitant funds allocated to Trident could be better spent addressing pressing social issues, such as healthcare and homelessness. The film challenges viewers to consider the opportunity cost of maintaining a nuclear deterrent.
Legacy and Reflection:
Flying the Flag: Arming the World remains relevant today. It compels us to question the ethics of arms exports, the role of governments, and the impact on global stability. The film invites us to confront uncomfortable truths and advocate for a world where peace prevails over profit.
