Weapons and ammunition management in conflict and post-conflict settings

Practitioners and policy experts from South-Eastern and Eastern Europe met in Vienna on 24–25 September 2026 to share experiences and examine the challenges of managing small arms and light weapons (SALW) and conventional ammunition during conflict and recovery. 

Organized by the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre, UNDP SEESAC, the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), the expert meeting brought together national authorities from Southeast Europe, international organizations and technical specialists. Discussions addressed the risks posed by damaged or poorly secured stockpiles, including accidental explosions, diversion and illicit trafficking, as well as the strain that conflict places on institutions and specialist capacity. 

SEESAC shared the experience from the Western Balkans, where authorities have used the regional SALW Control Roadmap, among other, to set priorities and strengthen cooperation. The presentation highlighted the best practices from the region in establishing common standards, generating knowledge, implementing a regional approach to counter the threat and ensure the management of small arms and light weapons throughout their life cycle. 
 
The meeting also explored how international commitments can guide national practice, with particular attention to the UN Programme of Action and the Global Framework for Through-life Conventional Ammunition Management. Participants examined the Framework’s objectives for safety, security and sustainability before working through a post-conflict scenario using a working version of its voluntary reporting template. 

The exchange offered an opportunity to connect regional experience with the needs of countries facing conflict and post-conflict challenges, and to inform future cooperation and assistance. The meeting was supported by the European Union, Switzerland, Germany, Finland, and the Austrian Armed Forces. 
 
SEESAC’s support and participation in this activity was made possible through the implementation of the EU Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/3006 in support of SEESAC disarmament and arms control activities in South-East Europe, thereby reducing the threat posed by illicit small arms, light weapons, and their ammunition.