Try to think of something advanced but theoretically possible that would rapidly proliferate. No weapons.
My first thought was some kind of farm tech leading to a second agricultural revolution, allowing AES countries to thrive despite sanctions. Some leap forward in permaculture or vertical farms or whatever.
Another idea was a breakthrough in cryptography makings comms be completely anonymous, giving insurgent movements a more even playing field.
I woke up and read this comment, and then concocted a world in which 28 Days Later rage zombies were motivated by some rich guy creating a way to impose his point of view on everyone.