Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/3003 of 2 December 2024 in support of strengthening the capacities of the Ukrainian authorities to prevent and combat illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives, in cooperation with the OSCE
Date: 2024-12-02
Institutions: Council of the European Union
Subjects: OSCE, Ukraine, arms control, arms trade, cooperation policy, explosive, fight against crime, firearms and munitions, illicit trade, non-proliferation of arms




L_202403003EN.000101.fmx.xml












Official Journal of the European Union


EN
L series













2024/3003


3.12.2024







            COUNCIL DECISION (CFSP) 2024/3003
         
of 2 December 2024
         
in support of strengthening the capacities of the Ukrainian authorities to prevent and combat illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives, in cooperation with the OSCE


THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 28(1) and Article 31(1) thereof,


Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,

Whereas:







(1)


On 19 November 2018, the Council adopted the EU Strategy against illicit firearms, small arms and light weapons (SALW) and their ammunition, entitled ‘Securing Arms, Protecting Citizens’ (the ‘EU SALW Strategy’). The EU SALW Strategy commits the Union and its Member States to assist in strengthening law enforcement capabilities in order to identify, disrupt and interdict trafficking networks and prevent firearms from reaching terrorists and criminals via the illicit market, inter alia by blocking the illicit financing and transport of arms and enhancing the role of border police, customs and port authorities in tackling illicit arms flows by maritime transport.












(2)


On 2 December 2019, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2019/2009 (1) in support of Ukraine’s efforts to combat illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives, in cooperation with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). The Council subsequently adopted Decisions (CFSP) 2022/2276 (2), (CFSP) 2024/330 (3) and (CFSP) 2024/1805 (4), in order to extend the implementation period of Decision (CFSP) 2019/2009 until 21 January 2025.












(3)


On 2 December 2021, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2021/2133 (5), in support of the comprehensive programme on supporting efforts to prevent and combat illicit trafficking of SALW and conventional ammunition in South-Eastern Europe.












(4)


The unprecedented security challenges arising from Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine since February 2022 have significantly increased the risk of trafficking and proliferation of weapons, ammunition and explosives in Ukraine. That potentially presents a significant long-term security threat to both the Union and Ukraine. Cooperation between the Union and Ukraine on that issue is therefore of mutual interest.












(5)


The implementation of Decision (CFSP) 2019/2009 has demonstrated its effectiveness and underlined the imperative for ongoing and expanded support.












(6)


In February 2024, the Ukrainian authorities requested the OSCE to continue supporting the strengthening of the capacities of the Ukrainian authorities in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives, in all its aspects.












(7)


The Joint security commitments between the European Union and Ukraine of 27 June 2024 state that:






—


the Union and Ukraine will intensify work to prevent and counter the diversion of firearms and SALW, their ammunition and explosives;










—


the Union will continue to support Ukraine building up robust capacity to monitor the stocks, the acquisition and possession of firearms and SALW, investigate and prosecute their illegal possession and trafficking, and support international cooperation and assistance in this area;










—


the Union will support the designation and development of appropriate structures, aiming at an effective control and disposal of firearms and SALW;










—


the Union and Ukraine will actively expose and counter Russian information manipulation in this area,









HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:



Article 1

1.   The purpose of this Decision is to strengthen the capacities of the authorities of Ukraine in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives, in all its aspects, into and from Ukraine.


2.   The objectives of this Decision are the following:






(a)


to enhance the supervisory capacities of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine with respect to preventing and combating illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives;










(b)


to enhance the operational capacities of the National Police of Ukraine, the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, the State Customs Service of Ukraine and the Security Service of Ukraine with respect to preventing and combating illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives.






3.   The Union shall support the objectives set out in paragraph 2 through the following actions:






(a)


enhancing the relevant normative and legislative framework, including support in developing a national Strategy and Action Plan in relation to small arms and light weapons;










(b)


developing the functionality of the Unified Weapons Register of Ukraine;










(c)


developing the capacities of relevant institutions through training on and acquisition of specialised equipment and infrastructure;










(d)


enhancing national inter-agency coordination and regional and international cooperation and information exchange, in particular through developing the functionality of the Coordination Center for Combating Illicit Trafficking of Firearms, their Parts and Components, and Ammunition;










(e)


raising awareness among the general public.






4.   The primary beneficiaries of this Decision shall be the national authorities of Ukraine referred to in paragraph 2. Other mandated national authorities shall be engaged on a case-by-case basis where necessary for the purpose of this Decision.


5.   A detailed description of the project is set out in the Annex to this Decision.



Article 2

1.   The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (the ‘High Representative’) shall be responsible for the implementation of this Decision.


2.   The technical implementation of the project referred to in Article 1 shall be carried out by the Secretariat of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (the ‘OSCE Secretariat’).


3.   The OSCE Secretariat shall perform its tasks under the responsibility of the High Representative. For that purpose, the High Representative shall enter into the necessary arrangements with the OSCE Secretariat.



Article 3

1.   The financial reference amount for the implementation of the project financed by the Union, referred to in Article 1, shall be EUR 5 000 000.


2.   The expenditure financed by the reference amount set out in paragraph 1 shall be managed in accordance with the procedures and rules applicable to the Union budget.


3.   The Commission shall supervise the proper management of the expenditure referred to in paragraph 2. For that purpose, it shall conclude the necessary agreement with the OSCE Secretariat. That agreement shall stipulate that the OSCE Secretariat is to ensure the visibility of the Union’s contribution, appropriate to its size.


4.   The Commission shall endeavour to conclude the agreement referred to in paragraph 3 as soon as possible after the entry into force of this Decision. It shall inform the Council of any difficulties in that process and of the date of conclusion of the agreement.



Article 4

1.   The High Representative shall report to the Council on the implementation of this Decision on the basis of six-monthly reports prepared by the OSCE Secretariat.


2.   The Commission shall report on the financial aspects of the project referred to in Article 1.



Article 5

1.   This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.


2.   This Decision shall expire 36 months after the date of conclusion of the agreement referred to in Article 3(3). However, it shall expire six months after the date of its entry into force if no such agreement has been concluded within that period.





Done at Brussels, 2 December 2024.


For the Council


The President


               NAGY M.





(1)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2019/2009 of 2 December 2019 in support of Ukraine’s efforts to combat illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives, in cooperation with the OSCE (OJ L 312, 3.12.2019, p. 42).

(2)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/2276 of 18 November 2022 amending Decision (CFSP) 2019/2009 in support of Ukraine’s efforts to combat illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives, in cooperation with the OSCE (OJ L 300, 21.11.2022, p. 42).

(3)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/330 of 16 January 2024 amending Decision (CFSP) 2019/2009 in support of Ukraine’s efforts to combat illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives, in cooperation with the OSCE (OJ L, 2024/330, 17.1.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2024/330/oj).

(4)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/1805 of 24 June 2024 amending Decision (CFSP) 2019/2009 in support of Ukraine’s efforts to combat illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives, in cooperation with the OSCE (OJ L, 2024/1805, 25.6.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2024/1805/oj).

(5)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2021/2133 of 2 December 2021 in support of the comprehensive programme on supporting efforts to prevent and combat illicit trafficking of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) and Conventional Ammunition (CA) in South-Eastern Europe (OJ L 432, 3.12.2021, p. 36).




ANNEX
PROJECT DOCUMENT
OSCE COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAMME ON SUPPORTING UKRAINE’S EFFORTS TO COMBAT ILLICIT TRAFFICKING IN WEAPONS, AMMUNITION, AND EXPLOSIVES, IN ALL ITS ASPECTS – Phase II
1.   Background
The current and unprecedented security challenges arising from the illegal Russian war of aggression against Ukraine have significantly increased the risk of trafficking and proliferation of weapons, ammunition, and explosives (WAE) in Ukraine. The current context has taken a toll on the availability of human, technical, analytical, political, and other resources available to Ukrainian authorities mandated to implement WAE control tasks.
The war has prompted a change in the wider environment that is correlated to preventing and combating trafficking and the proliferation of WAE. In the arms control and disarmament sector, the need for strengthened weapons registration and accountability measures, such as duly registration and accounting of military, law enforcement, and civilian stocks of weapons, import/export control, and post-shipment checks of arms and ammunition transfers to Ukrainian authorities, is undeniable.
The war has also impacted transnational organized crime, significantly affecting regional illicit economies and criminal networks. The frontline disrupted trafficking routes and hubs, while new illicit markets have emerged, including beyond Ukraine’s border.
The security situation in Ukraine has heightened the urgency for continued support and assistance in addressing the threats of illicit trafficking of SALW in the country and the evolving needs of the region.
Ukraine remains an area of concern and an important challenge in the EU Strategy against illicit firearms, small Arms & light weapons (SALW) and their ammunition (the ‘EU SALW Strategy’). The EU SALW Strategy states that ‘the current instability in Eastern Europe has raised the level of illicit trafficking of firearms in various countries in the region, such as Ukraine. This presents a significant long-term security threat to both Ukraine and the EU. Cooperation between the EU and Ukraine on this issue is thus of mutual interest. The EU is pursuing its bilateral engagement with Ukraine and other countries in the region and systematically integrates the fight against illicit SALW into any dialogue on security matters with partner countries in the neighbourhood.’.
Thus, with the reference to Eastern Neighbourhood in general and Ukraine in particular the EU SALW strategy sets out the following actions:






‘—


The EU and its Member States will integrate the fight against firearms/SALW trafficking in the context of the dialogue on security matters with partner countries in the neighbourhood, such as Ukraine;










—


The EU and its Member States will establish channels of communication between EU and Ukrainian experts, identify a contact point to ensure smooth cooperation, raise awareness, share best practices and expertise, and identify training needs and other support measures to strengthen Ukraine’s capacities in the field; and










—


The EU and its Member States will keep working on a permanent technical roundtable with Ukraine to address the pressing problem of the illicit traffic of firearms and the risks associated with such arms falling into the hands of terrorists and organised crime groups.’.




The EU 2020-2025 action plan on firearms trafficking contains, among other prioirities, the Priority 4: stepping up international cooperation, in particular, between the EU and non-EU partners considering the high risk of firearms trafficking in south-east Europe (understood as covering non-EU partners of the Western Balkans, Ukraine and Moldova), the specificities being linked to its geopolitical context, the high number and type of national and international players involved, and the current instability in Eastern Europe. The Action Plan also underlines the need to involve Ukraine and Moldova in a broader coherent framework of cooperation against common threats posed by the illicit trafficking of firearms in the whole region. This also answers the Council’s call to involve Ukraine in the relevant Operational Action Plans of the EU Policy Cycle for organised and serious international crime. With regard to Ukraine, the Action Plan takes into account the EU’s support for Ukraine’s efforts to combat illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives in cooperation with the OSCE and SEESAC.
On 2 December 2019, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2019/2009 ‘in support of Ukraine’s efforts to combat illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives, in cooperation with the OSCE’ – designated as Phase I. Notwithstanding the persistent war in Ukraine, noteworthy achievements have been made toward the anticipated outcomes, facilitated by the intervention of an OSCE-led project. Ukrainian stakeholders enhanced their capabilities in various critical areas (including risk and criminal analysis, detection and investigation techniques, legislative measures, awareness campaigns, canine and explosive ordnance disposal skills, and both coordination and international collaboration) in preventing and combating the illicit trafficking of WAE. The project intervention in Ukraine, as part of Council Decision (CFSP) 2019/2009 subsequently extended (no cost) until January 2025, has demonstrated its effectiveness and underlined the imperative for ongoing and expanded support. The prevailing security situation in Ukraine underscores the critical need for sustained assistance, highlighting the project’s significance in combating the threats posed by illicit trafficking of SALW within the country and responding to the dynamic requirements of the region.
Joint security commitments between the European Union and Ukraine, dated 27 June 2024, underlined that the European Union and Ukraine will intensify work to prevent and counter the diversion of firearms and small arms and light weapons (SALW), their ammunition and explosives. The European Union will continue to support Ukraine building up robust capacity to monitor the stocks, the acquisition and possession of firearms and SALW, investigate and prosecute their illegal possession and trafficking, and support international cooperation and assistance in this area. The EU will support the designation and development of appropriate structures, aiming at an effective control and disposal of firearms and SALW.
Given the prevailing challenges and the security situation in Ukraine, at the beginning of 2024, the respective project beneficiaries – the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), the National Police (NPU), the State Border Guard Service (SBGS), the State Customs Service (SCS), and the State Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) – have submitted official requests for the continuation of the OSCE assistance.
In response to this request, in March – June 2024 the OSCE carried out ‘The Needs Assessment in Support of Strengthening the Capacities of Ukrainian Authorities in Preventing and Combating Illicit Trafficking in Weapons, Ammunition and Explosives in All Its Aspects’ (hereinafter, Needs Assessment), a comprehensive exercise that clearly identified the critical gaps and challenges faced by the target communities, including the threat of illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons (SALW). This further justified the necessity for the continuation and expansion of the corresponding assistance. Additionally, the current security situation in Ukraine has heightened the urgency for continued assistance, underscoring the importance of this support in addressing the threats of illicit trafficking of SALW in the country as well as the evolving needs of the region.
2.   Overall objective
To assist Ukrainian authorities in preventing and combating illicit trafficking of WAE in all its aspects.
3.   Description of Action
The action is based on findings and recommendations of an external evaluation of the OSCE current project intervention in Ukraine, and of the OSCE Secretariat ‘Needs Assessment in support of strengthening the capacities of Ukrainian authorities in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition, and explosives in all its aspects’. The assessment emphasized that a whole-of-government approach and international cooperation are crucial for addressing the issue efficiently, effectively, and with significant impact.
Therefore, the OSCE, in close cooperation with Ukrainian authorities, developed a project addressing various aspects of their mandates related to combatting illicit trafficking in WAE. in all its aspects with a view to strengthen the overall safety and security in Ukraine. This Council Decision will provide core financing of this project; in addition, the OSCE coordinates financial and in-kind contributions of other international donors, which will further support implementing of objectives of this project. These actions will be corelated and coordinated with other activities in the region, such as Council Decision (CFSP) 2021/2133 in support of the comprehensive programme on supporting efforts to prevent and combat illicit trafficking of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) and Conventional Ammunition (CA) in South- Eastern Europe.
This proposed multi-year project intervention aims to continue assisting the Ukrainian Government authorities – the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), National Police (NPU), State Border Guard Service (SBGS), State Customs Service (SCS) and Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) – in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in WAE in all its aspects.
These processes verified assistance requests and confirmed the needs for the OSCE support, namely in strengthening mandated authorities’ capabilities to:






—


enhance supervisory capacities of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives through improvement of the functionality of the ‘Unified Registry of Weapons’, improvement of legislative mechanisms, raising public awareness and enhancing inter-agency coordination and international cooperation;










—


enhance the operational capacities of the National Police of Ukraine in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives;










—


enhance the capabilities of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives;










—


enhance the capabilities of the State Customs Service of Ukraine in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives;










—


enhance the capabilities of the Security Service of Ukraine in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives.




4.   Expected Results
4.1.   Result 1: Supervisory capacities of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in WAE is enhanced.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine (MIA) is one of the key national authorities in Ukraine that not only formulates state policy, regulates and controls the use of WAE, but also executes operational – either directly or through its subordinated agencies – as well as coordination measures in preventing and combating illicit trafficking of WAE in all its aspects.
This result aims to enhance the supervisory capacity of the MIA to prevent and combat the illicit trafficking of WAE. It includes promoting and transferring international standards and good practices for the control of the manufacture, marking, and record-keeping of WAE in Ukraine, supporting the improvement of legislative mechanisms for regulating and controlling the circulation and use of WAE, as well as raising public awareness on WAE control. The scope of activities under this result will enhance the MIA role in enabling and facilitating inter-agency coordination in Ukraine, cooperation with international actors, and supporting strategic approaches in the prevention and combating illicit trafficking in WAE in all its aspects.
4.1.1.   Activities
4.1.1.1.   Promotion and transfer of international standards and good practices for the control of manufacture, marking and record- keeping of WAE in Ukraine
The activity will include:






—


Facilitation of exchange of experiences and good practices via expert consultations, participation in international subject matter fora and coordination visits;










—


Providing technical equipment and software for modernization and improvement of the functionality of the ‘Unified Registry of Weapons’ (URW) improving and expanding the use of ‘URW’;










—


Providing technical equipment and software for improving and expanding the use and integrability with the EU systems of automated Ballistics Identification System (BIS);










—


Providing legal support and training for improving and expanding the use of ‘URW’ and automated ballistics identification system.




4.1.1.2.   Supporting improvement of legislative mechanisms for regulating and controlling the circulation and use of WAE and its implementation as well as raising public awareness on risks related to illegal possession, misuse and trafficking in WAE
This activity will include:






—


Facilitation of exchange of experiences and good practices in partnership with the MIA via expert consultations, participation in international subject matter fora and study visits for legislators, policy-makers and leading experts of Ukrainian government authorities on issues related to regulation and controlling the circulation and use of WAE and public awareness on WAE control;










—


Implementation of country-wide public opinion surveys and attitude studies on different aspects of WAE control;










—


Implementation of public awareness and communication campaigns on risks related to illegal possession, misuse and trafficking in WAE and impact analysis;










—


Gender Awareness raising to promote and encourage a general understanding of gender-related challenges in the WAE control contexts.




4.1.1.3.   Enhancing inter-agency coordination and international cooperation and supporting strategic approaches in prevention and combating illicit trafficking in WAE in all its aspects
This activity will include:






—


Facilitation of exchange of experiences and good practices via expert consultations, participation in international subject matter fora and study visits for policy-makers and leading experts on operation of WAE control coordination centers;










—


Providing technical assistance and training for enhancing the operational and analytical capabilities of the Coordination Center for Counteracting the Illicit Trafficking of Firearms, Its Parts, Components, and Ammunition;










—


Promoting international cooperation and information-sharing within the MATRIX of international partners in support of SALW control efforts in Ukraine. Organizing annual national conferences on the progress of implementing initiatives and challenges in the domain of WAE;










—


Supporting development of the national Strategy and Action Plan in prevention and combating illicit trafficking in WAE.




4.1.1.4.   Facilitation of projects’ governance and coordination
This activity will include:






—


Organization of regular biannual governance boards and steering group meetings of the Project.




4.2.   Result 2: The operational capacities of the National Police of Ukraine in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in WAE is enhanced
The National Police of Ukraine (NPU) plays a crucial role in preventing and combating the illicit trafficking of WAE in all its aspects in the contexts of national security, public safety, and the rule of law within the country, including through the strategies and collaborations both at the national and international levels.
The result will be achieved through a comprehensive set of project activities, implemented in close collaboration with the NPU. This collaborative approach aims to address the existing complexities and challenges faced by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), canine (K9), Criminal Investigation (CI), and Weapons Control (WC) units in their day-to-day operations countering the illicit trafficking of WAE. The project will focus on enhancing the training, technical capabilities, and operational efficiency of these specialized units. This will involve capacity-building programs, technological upgrades, operational optimization, development of standard operating procedures, and strengthening interagency cooperation.
4.2.1.   Activities
4.2.1.1.   Providing advisory support, technical and educational equipment to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Service
This activity will include:






—


Facilitation of exchange of experiences and good practices via expert consultations, participation in international subject matter events and study visits for policy-makers and leading experts from the EOD Department










—


Developing the training capabilities in prevention and detection of illicit WAE via procurement of IT classrooms and other educational infrastructure development










—


Organization of the ToT enhancing the EOD Department of the NPU trainers’ capacities in detection of illicit WAE










—


Enhancing EOD Department`s operational capabilities in prevention and detection of illicit WAE through provision of expert and advisory support, as well as technical equipment




4.2.1.2.   Promoting of good practices, knowledge transfer and equipment assistance for Criminal Investigation Units (CIU) in investigating the illicit trafficking in WAE
This activity will include:






—


Facilitation of exchange of experiences and good practices via expert consultations, participation in international subject matter events and study visits for policy-makers and leading experts from the CIU










—


Developing the training capabilities in prevention and detection of illicit WAE via procurement of IT classrooms and other training infrastructure, as well as organization of the ToTs for CIU of the NPU officers










—


Enhancing CIU operational capabilities in prevention and detection of illicit WAE by equipping temporary checkpoints, mobile and analytical groups




4.2.1.3.   Promoting good practices, knowledge transfer and equipment assistance for K9 service of the NPU for detection illicit trafficking of WAE
This activity will include:






—


Facilitation of exchange of experiences and good practices via expert consultations, participation in international subject matter events and study visits for policy-makers and leading experts from the K9 service of the NPU










—


Review and update of training methodologies and SOPs related to K9 in the area of combating illicit trafficking of WAE following the best international canine training methods and tactics










—


Organization of the ToT enhancing the K9 service of the NPU trainers’ capacities in detection of illicit WAE










—


Procurement of technical equipment for the needs of the K9 service in the area of illicit WAE detection




4.2.1.4.   Promoting good practices, knowledge transfer and providing equipment assistance for Weapons Control Units (WCU) in tracing and record keeping of weapons and ammunition
This activity will include:






—


Facilitation of exchange of experiences and good practices via expert consultations, participation in international subject matter events and study visits for policy-makers and leading experts from the NPU Weapons Control Unit (WCU)










—


Public awareness and outreach activities on risks related to illegal possession, misuse and trafficking in WAE










—


Providing technical equipment to enhance the capacities of the WCU of the NPU officers to effectively use the URW by the NPU regional departments




4.3.   Result 3: The Capabilities of the State Border Guard Border Guard Service of Ukraine in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in WAE is enhanced
4.3.1.   Activities
4.3.1.1.   Providing comprehensive training and knowledge transfer in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in WAE for the SBGS personnel
This activity will include:






—


Capacity-building exchange programs for SBGS experts in combating illicit trafficking of WAE










—


Development, implementation and evaluation of the specialized training programmes on combating cross-border trafficking in WAE for SBGS border control officers










—


Development, implementation and evaluation of the specialized training programmes on combating cross-border trafficking in WAE for SBGS analytical officers










—


Organizing national roundtable/workshop on combating illicit trafficking in WAE.




4.3.1.2.   Providing equipment and technology assistance in combating illicit trafficking in WAE for SBGS of Ukraine
This activity will include:






—


Providing of technical equipment to SBGS of Ukraine border control units and training centres










—


Providing of technical equipment and technologies to SBGS analytical and operative search units.




4.3.1.3.   Providing canine assistance in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in WAE for SBGS of Ukraine
This activity will include:






—


Canine capacity building exchange programme / study visit










—


Reviewing and updating dog training methodologies, operational procedures and tactics of use through expert mentorship programme










—


Providing of equipment and training materials to SBGS canine service to support training and operations in combating illicit trafficking of WAE










—


Improvement of dog training infrastructure at SBGS canine training centre.




4.4.   Result 4: The capabilities of the State Customs Service of Ukraine in preventing and combating illicit trafficking of WAE is enhanced
4.4.1.   Activities
4.4.1.1.   Providing comprehensive training and knowledge transfer in preventing and combating illicit trafficking of WAE for the SCS personnel
This activity will include:






—


Capacity-building exchange programs for SCS experts in combating illicit trafficking in WAE










—


Development, implementation and evaluation of the specialized training programmes on combating cross-border trafficking in WAE for SCS personnel










—


Development, implementation and evaluation of the specialized ToT module on combatting cross-border trafficking in WAE for the SCS










—


Organizing national roundtable/workshop on combating illicit trafficking in WAE




4.4.1.2.   Providing equipment and technology assistance in combating illicit trafficking in WAE for SCS of Ukraine
This activity will include:






—


Providing of technical equipment and technologies to SCS of Ukraine




4.4.1.3.   Providing canine assistance in combating illicit trafficking in WAE for SCS of Ukraine
This activity will include:






—


Canine capacity building exchange programme










—


Reviewing and updating dog training methodologies, operational procedures and tactics of use through expert mentorship programme










—


Providing of equipment and training materials to SCS canine service to support training and operations in combating illicit trafficking of WAE










—


Improvement of dog training infrastructure at SCS canine training centre




4.5.   Result 5: The capabilities of the Security Service of Ukraine in preventing and combating illicit trafficking of WAE is enhanced
4.5.1.   Activities
4.5.1.1.   Providing comprehensive training and knowledge transfer in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in WAE for the SSU personnel
This activity will include:






—


Capacity-building exchange programs for SSU experts in combating illicit trafficking in WAE










—


Development, implementation and evaluation of the specialized training programmes on WAE-related investigations for SSU personnel










—


Organizing national roundtable/workshop on combating illicit trafficking in WAE




4.5.1.2.   Providing equipment and technology assistance in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in WAE for SSU
This activity will include:






—


Providing of technical equipment and technologies to SSU of Ukraine




4.5.1.3.   Providing canine assistance in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in WAE for SSU
This activity will include:






—


Canine capacity building exchange programme / study visit










—


Reviewing and updating dog training methodologies and tactics of use in WAE detection










—


Providing of equipment to SSU canine service to support training and operations in combating illicit trafficking of WAE




5.   Project management and administrative support for the implementation of the action
The organizational structure for project administration and implementation will be embodied by a Project Implementation Team (PIT), operating under the auspices of the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre/Forum for Security Cooperation Support Unit (CPC/FSC SU), with a presence in Vienna and Kyiv.
The effectiveness of the PIT will be augmented through the integration of specialized support components in procurement and asset/travel management. These components will be firmly embedded within the appropriate divisions of the OSCE Secretariat, specifically the Departments of Management and Finance. This structure is designed to bolster the project’s operational efficiency and its capacity to achieve its objectives, ensuring a cohesive and comprehensive approach to project management within the framework of the OSCE’s operational mandates.
The dedicated project personnel will perform the following tasks:






—


managing projects through all steps of the project cycle,










—


carrying out day-to-day financial oversight of the projects,










—


providing technical and legal expertise, supporting projects’ procurements,










—


engaging and coordinating with other international organizations and programmes,










—


carrying out quality assurance and quality control of the approved projects’ deliverables,










—


supporting the Ukrainian authorities in developing new national measures to strengthen capacities and collective efforts in preventing and combating illicit trafficking of WAE.




6.   Gender
In order to increase the effectiveness of WAE control policies and to ensure that their implementation improves security for both women and men, the gender perspective will be integrated into the actions supported by this decision and addressed through technical advice and expertise, development of knowledge products and training. Moreover, the project plans to incorporate gender mainstreaming into comprehensive security, recognizing the importance of considering gender dimensions in its activities.
Gender equality and/or women’s empowerment are included in result 2 under the activity 2.2. on ‘Gender Awareness raising to promote and encourage a general understanding of gender-related challenges in the WAE control contexts’ that contributes to the gender mainstreaming of the project by integrating a gender perspective and addressing the specific challenges and impacts that gender norms and roles have on the control of weapons and ammunition. Additionally, the project recognizes the importance of women’s equal participation and inclusion in the program, ensuring that their voices and perspectives are represented, and that capacities are built with employees of both genders.
7.   Beneficiaries
The direct beneficiaries of the action will be the national authorities of Ukraine responsible for preventing and combatting illicit trafficking in WAE. Primarily targeted national authorities are: MIA, including its expert and licensing services, NPU, SBGS, SCS and SSU. Beneficiaries can request to include additional recipients in support the implementation of the project activities to be confirmed by donor(s) and implementer FSC SU. The MIA, NPU, SBGS, SCS and SSU are foreseen to be engaged in the project governance as steering board members in the capacity of project beneficiary / customer representative.
The indirect beneficiaries of the action will be the populations in Ukraine and its European neighbourhood that are at risk by the use of illicit WAE in criminal activities, terrorism and violent misuse.
The EU and its Member States will also be indirect beneficiaries of the project as they will benefit from the feedback of the Ukrainian authorities on the identified trafficking routes of illicit weapons,
8.   Union visibility
OSCE shall take all appropriate measures to publicize the fact that the action has been funded by the Union. Such measures will be carried out in accordance with the Commission’s Communication and Visibility Manual for European Union External Actions. OSCE will thus ensure the visibility of the Union’s contribution with appropriate branding and publicity, highlighting the role of the Union, ensuring the transparency of its actions and raising awareness of the reasons for the Decision as well as Union support for the Decision and the results of this support. Material produced by the project will prominently display the European Union flag in accordance with Union guidelines for the accurate use and reproduction of the flag.
Given that planned activities vary greatly in scope and character, a range of promotional tools will be used, including: traditional media; websites; social media; and informational and promotional materials including infographics, leaflets, newsletters, press releases and others, as appropriate. Publications, public events, campaigns, equipment and construction works procured under the project will be branded accordingly. To further amplify the impact by raising awareness among various national governments and the public, the international community and local and international media, each of the project target groups will be addressed using the appropriate language. Additionally, possible special activities such as interviews with media and field trips of donor community will be devised. A photo gallery and short films on the project activities will be developed / produced and used in OSCE-executed visibility measures.
9.   Duration
Based on the experience of implementing Decision (CFSP) 2019/2009, and taking into consideration the broad scope of the action, the number of beneficiaries and the number and the complexity of planned activities, the timeframe for implementation is 36 months.
10.   Technical implementing entity
The technical implementation of this Decision will be entrusted to the OSCE Secretariat-Conflict Prevention Centre (CPC). The OSCE will implement the activities under this Decision in coordination and cooperation with other international organizations and agencies, in particular with a view to ensuring effective synergies and avoiding duplications of activities.
11.   Steering Committee
The Steering Committee for this project will be composed of representatives of the High Representative, of the EU Delegation in Kiev and of the implementing entity referred to in paragraph 6 of this Annex. The implementing entity, thereby helped by the Steering Committee will ensure that the implementation of the project happens in coordination with the EU’s other related assistance to Ukraine, such as the Integrated Border Management Strategy (supported by the Commission’s European Neighbourhood Instrument), Strategy for combating organised crime, the regional cooperation with the Western Balkans in the field of SALW-control implemented by UNDP/SEESAC (supported by Council Decisions (CFSP) 2019/2111 (1) and (CFSP) 2022/2321 (2)), the EU-UA law enforcement cooperation in the field of firearms trafficking (supported by the Commission’s DG HOME, Europol and EMPACT firearms), the work of Conflict Armament Research in Ukraine (supported by Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/387 (3)), the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy missions EUAM Ukraine and EUBAM Moldova and Ukraine and their support activities for border control, and the International Organisation on Migration’s (IOM) work on Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration of ex-fighters (supported by the Commission’s Instrument contributing to Stability and Peace). The Steering Committee will on a regular basis invite representative of the Ukrainian governmental partners. The Steering Committee can also invite representatives of entities involved in projects in Ukraine that have a similar or related objective. The Steering Committee will review the implementation of this Decision regularly, at least once every 6 months, including by the use of electronic means of communication.


(1)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2019/2111 of 9 December 2019 in support of SEESAC disarmament and arms control activities in South-East Europe reducing the threat of illicit small arms and light weapons and their ammunition (OJ L 318, 10.12.2019, p. 147).

(2)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/2321 of 25 November 2022 in support of the South-Eastern and Eastern Europe Clearinghouse for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SEESAC) for the implementation of the Regional Roadmap on combating illicit arms trafficking in the Western Balkans and in support of disarmament and arms control activities in South-East and East Europe (OJ L 307, 28.11.2022, p. 149).

(3)  Corrigendum to Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/387 of 20 February 2023 in support of a global reporting mechanism on illicit conventional arms and their ammunition to reduce the risk of their diversion and illicit transfer (‘iTrace V’) (OJ L 73, 10.3.2023, p. 67).



ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2024/3003/oj
ISSN 1977-0677 (electronic edition)