Implementing period: December 2022 - February 2024
Budget: US$ 513,600
The project built upon the previously implemented activities as well as the identified risks, needs, and priorities of North Macedonia as it strove to advance towards achieving SALW Control Roadmap Goals. It aimed to improve implementation of the Information Management System (IMS) of the Ministry of Interior (MoI) to facilitate the gathering of SALW related data, with a particular focus on data collection related to domestic violence involving firearms. It also aimed to improve the analytical capabilities of the Forensics Department through the provision of specialized equipment and training, as well as improve weapons warehouse management and tracing capacities leading to a decreased risk of the proliferation of SALW and improved security overall.
Overall achievements:
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Improved implementation of the Police Information Management System (IMS) with regards to SALW-related data collection, analysis and management.
- Through technical support and awareness raising for selected police units, the project enhanced the use of the Police Information Management System (IMS), bolstering the overall collection and processing of SALW-related data by the Ministry of Interior (MoI).
- An analysis related to domestic violence cases, including through the misuse of firearms, was produced as part of the project and approved by the MoI. This will be the basis for the subsequent development of a domestic violence module, which will be integrated in the IMS and thus ensure this type of cases are properly collected and analyzed as well.
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Enhanced analytical capabilities of MoI’s Forensics Department.
- The MoI’s Forensic Department was equipped with a Desktop SEM-EDD device, which will substantially advance microanalysis of gunshot residue. Relevant personnel were trained on the use of the device. This unique state-of-the-art equipment will improve the work of the Forensic Department in examining evidence from firearms-related incidents. A video was produced and promoted on social media to enhance the visibility of this contribution.
- A study visit to the National Forensic Center of the Republic of Serbia facilitated expert exchange of senior representatives from the Ministry of Interior with their peers from the neighboring country. The productive exchange inspired collaboration and needs for improvement in ballistic and crime scene investigation areas, which will be pursued further through a new project initiative funded under the MPTF, which commenced in January 2024.
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Upgraded weapons warehouse management and tracing capacities that leads to decreased risk of proliferation of SALW and improved security.
- The MoI was provided with a Laser Marking Machine and relevant staff were trained on its use. The device will be used by the MoI to mark deactivated weapons in accordance with EU regulations, and thus contribute to decreasing the risk of proliferation and diversion of firearms.
- The technical documentation for physical security and video surveillance of the warehouses in the “Gjorche Petrov” Police Center was prepared as part of the project. In line with the identified gaps and needs for improved security of weapons warehouses, the project supported enhanced electrical infrastructure, upgraded lighting systems, and the integration of a diesel generator to mitigate power outages. These upgrades will enhance the security of weapons warehouses, thereby
mitigating the risk of firearm proliferation.
The project contributed to Roadmap Goals 2, 4, 5, and 7 and key performance indicators 2, 3, 8, 10, and 13 of the Roadmap for a sustainable solution to the illegal possession, misuse and trafficking of Small Arms and Light Weapons and their ammunition in the Western Balkans.