Collaborative Action on Border Security and Arms Control: Regional Meeting Brings Together Border Police and Customs Representatives from Southeast Europe

SEESAC, within the framework of the EU (CFSP) 2019/2111, organized the Regional Meeting of the Border Police and Customs Representatives in Montenegro on 5-6 November.  

Focused on enhancing border security and combating illicit trafficking of firearms, ammunition, explosives, and related materials, this event is part of SEESAC’s efforts to promote disarmament and arms control activities in the region.

The meeting brought together representatives of border police and customs services from six Western Balkans jurisdictions, Moldova, and relevant international partners.

The primary aim was to foster cross-border cooperation and facilitate knowledge-sharing on firearms detection, while addressing common challenges in the region’s ongoing fight against arms trafficking. Through in-depth discussions, the meeting strengthened collaboration between law enforcement agencies and customs services, working towards enhanced cross-border security.

Structured over two days, the meeting featured panel discussions and focused working groups, enabling participants to share successful strategies and identify areas for further development in different aspect of border security and arms control. Key topics included:

  • River monitoring systems for intercepting illegal trafficking along waterways,
  • Parcel delivery and control,
  • New trends and threats in firearms trafficking,
  • Control of explosives and explosives precursors at the border.

The session on River Monitoring Systems explored current monitoring technologies and cross-border enforcement mechanisms, emphasizing cooperation along waterways to prevent illicit trafficking as organized crime networks continue to grow in complexity and reach.

Following discussion on River Monitoring System, participants discussed Parcel Delivery and Control examining smuggling trends, data analysis, and current preventive measures, while discussing best practices and strategies to enhance detection and prevent trafficking through parcel delivery systems.

As the security threats rapidly advance and become more wide-spread, discussion on the new trends and threats in firearms trafficking examined blank-firing weapons, imitation firearms, and other emerging technologies with a focus on Integrated Border Management (IBM) initiatives to improve coordination.

Responding to the previously identified need to advance knowledge exchange and legal framework on the control of explosives, pyrotechnics, and explosive precursors at the border points, participants discussed seizure statistics, measures for handling explosive materials safely, and explored strategies to strengthen border controls and enhance safety at points of entries.

Working groups following the panels provided an interactive platform for more in-depth discussion, building partnerships, sharing information, and advancing actionable solutions while evaluating detection and investigative capacities regarding small arms and light weapons.

This event represents a crucial step forward in SEESAC’s ongoing efforts to enhance disarmament and arms control in Southeast Europe, marking another milestone in strengthening border security and regional cooperation.

 

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