Linking conversion of military technology to needs of developing countries

In the discussion of conversion measures, the situation and the needs of developing countries have often not been sufficiently addressed. These include three very different dimensions. First, many developing countries themselves have participated in the arms race in a way that is no longer affordable. Second, some of the most urgent environmental problems are to be found in the developing world, creating a demand for new and efficient environmental technologies. Third, developing countries have had high - but so far unfulfilled - hopes that part of the savings from military spending in the industrial countries would be diverted to accelerate the development process.