Study on Hand Grenades Produced in the Western Balkans or Originating from the Western Balkans has been developed
SEESAC has developed a Study on Hand Grenades Produced in the Western Balkans or Originating from the Western Balkans, together with the Best Practice Manual for the Forensic Examinations of Seized Hand Grenades Produced in or Originating from the Western Balkans. This comprehensive Study aims to enhance the understanding of the risks associated with hand grenades and bolster efforts to promote regional and global security.
The Study offers comprehensive information on hand grenades produced in the Western Balkans, covering their detailed description, functioning, technical composition, and safe disposal. It is intended as a supplementary tool for officially trained personnel with valid licenses or certification in the field, particularly in the disposal of explosive devices. Additionally, the Study tackles the illegal use and trafficking of hand grenades, providing an overview of the current situation in the Western Balkans and the alarming safety risks posed by the illegal use of hand grenades for criminal purposes.
Produced following the discussions at the South-East Europe Firearms Expert Network (SEEFEN) meeting on 26-27 October 2021, the Study utilised a mixed methodology approach, including a desk review, interviews with relevant experts, and quantitative data collection. The Study concludes with practical recommendations for improving the control and forensic examination of hand grenades originating from the Western Balkans.
On the other side, the Best Practice Manual (BPM) is conceptualised to include a framework for procedures, quality principles, training, and approaches to the forensic examination of hand grenades. The BPM provides a detailed overview of resources required, including personnel, methods to be used, validation, and quality assurance processes. It describes the best practices for handling hand grenades, conducting assessments and scene examinations and gives an overview of recommended health and safety measures.
The development of this Study and the accompanying Manual was made possible by the contribution of the European Union through the Council Decision (CD) 2018/1788 in support of SEESAC for the implementation of the Regional Roadmap on combating illicit arms trafficking in the Western Balkans, and CD 2019/2111 in support of SEESAC disarmament and arms control activities in South-East Europe (amended by CD 2024/381).
The Study and accompanying Manual will not be publicly available, but they will be accessible to all relevant stakeholders and interested parties upon request. You can send your request to the following email address: seesac@undp.org.