Division 1 Introduction and objectives

The history of large scale accumulation of small arms and light weapons and ammunition stockpiles in South East Europe (SEE), an insufficient number of secure storage locations and the persistent lack of sufficient capacities to fully secure them has made the countries in the region a particular concern as well as an important challenge in the European Union Strategy to combat illicit accumulation and trafficking of small arms and light weapons (SALW) and their ammunition. Hence, the continuation of the Union's previous support to combat the threat posed by the spread and illicit trafficking in SALW in and from South East Europe forms an essential part in its efforts to achieve the EU SALW Strategy goals.

The overall objective of the project is to promote international peace and security through continuous support for efforts to reduce the threat posed by the widespread accumulation and illicit trade in SALW and their ammunition in South East Europe. Specifically, the project will reduce the availability of surplus SALW and their ammunition; improve the security of storage facilities; improve tracing of weapons through enhanced registration and marking; as well as increase information and knowledge transfers and awareness-raising of the threat posed by SALW. In addition, the programme will contribute to stability in South East Europe by working through the framework of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC).

Building upon the successful implementation of Council Decision 2010/179/CFSP in particular, and in line with the EU SALW Strategy, this follow-up project thus aims to further strengthen national control systems and to continue to foster multilateralism, forging regional mechanisms for countering the supply and destabilising spread of SALW and their ammunition. Furthermore, in order to ensure a more comprehensive regional dimension, this follow-up project will also include the Republic of Moldova and Kosovo^f1 in the regional processes of SALW control to ensure a truly holistic, regional approach with long-term impact and sustainability.