Tracing made easier! Marking capacities in South East Europe enhanced with equipment and training needed to carry out import and deactivation marking per EU standards

In the period between 11 October – 10 November, SEESAC organized installation of the laser marking machines and training for designated officials  in Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, Kosovo* and Moldova. Representatives of local authorities learned how to effectively use the machines to mark small arms and light weapons. The hands-on training and use of authentic materials such as different samples of metals and wood as well as real weapons and their parts, helped to hone the participant’s skills. This activity will reduce the threat of illicit trafficking of firearms by enhancing South East Europe law-enforcement capacities for marking and tracing. 

The marking machines were purchased, and installation and training organized as part of the implementation of EU Council Decision (CFSP) 2019/2113 of 9 December 2019 amending Decision (CFSP) 2016/2356 in support of SEESAC disarmament and arms control activities in South-East Europe in the framework of the EU Strategy to combat illicit accumulation and trafficking of SALW and their ammunition.

*References to Kosovo shall be understood to be in the context of Security Council resolution 1244 (1999)