Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/2565 of 15 December 2025 in support of the United Nations Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its aspects and the Global Framework on Ammunition
Date: 2025-12-15
Institutions: Council of the European Union
Subjects: EU strategy, UN programmes and funds, arms control, arms trade, fight against crime, firearms and munitions, illicit trade, non-proliferation of arms, small arms




L_202502565EN.000101.fmx.xml












Official Journal of the European Union


EN
L series













2025/2565


16.12.2025







            COUNCIL DECISION (CFSP) 2025/2565
         
of 15 December 2025
         
in support of the United Nations Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its aspects and the Global Framework on Ammunition


THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Articles 28(1) and 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 & Light Weapons and their Ammunition, entitled ‘Securing Arms, Protecting Citizens’ (the ‘EU SALW Strategy’), which sets the guidelines for Union action in the field of small arms and light weapons (SALW). The EU SALW Strategy considers the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UN PoA) as the global framework to counter the threat posed by illicit SALW and supports its full and effective implementation at national, regional, and global levels.












(2)


On 17 October 2022, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2022/1965 (1), which continued the Union’s support for the UN PoA. Through Decision 2022/1965 and other relevant EU support, the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), its regional centres and implementing partners have been able to implement projects to combat the trafficking of SALW and ammunition in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean.












(3)


On 28 June 2024, States at the Fourth Review Conference on the UN PoA and the International Instrument to Enable States to Identify and Trace, in a Timely and Reliable Manner, Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons (ITI), adopted by consensus a forward-looking outcome document. States collectively agreed on ways to further combat illicit SALW, including through the establishment of a new state-led Open-ended Technical Expert Group (OETEG) to address developments in SALW manufacturing, technology and design, on improving gender-responsive SALW control and on enhancing the participation of young people in SALW control processes.












(4)


On 27 June 2025, a Preparatory Meeting of States on the Global Framework for Through-life Conventional Ammunition Management (GFA) adopted Recommendations in preparation for the 2027 Meeting of States and on Process and modalities for the effective implementation of the GFA, including recommendations to the UN Secretariat, of which UNODA is an office.












(5)


On 14 April 2025, the Council adopted Conclusions on Arms Export Control, which included the strengthening of multilateral commitments, such as UN PoA, the ITI and the GFA, and enhancing technical implementation through measures like stockpile management (including through support for capacity building of third states), record-keeping, transfer controls and tracing,





HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:



Article 1

1.   In line with the EU SALW Strategy, the purpose of this Decision is to reduce the prevalence of illicit arms and ammunition and prevent their devastating human cost. This will be achieved through:






(a)


the strengthening of relevant international frameworks and of global policy frameworks; and,










(b)


the translation of global policy frameworks into action through the support to multilateral processes, regional cooperation and targeted national support, which will contribute to combating illicit SALW and ammunition, while helping to prevent armed violence and conflict.
The project is designed to build the resilience of States and civil society organisations to prevent the illicit trafficking of arms and ammunition due to diversion, and to strengthen weapons and ammunition management globally.






2.   Pursuant to paragraph 1, the objectives of this Decision are the following:






(a)


to strengthen forward-looking and action-oriented policy outcomes under the GFA, the UN PoA and the ITI;










(b)


to support the coordinated and strengthened implementation of the international instruments at the national, sub-regional and regional level; and,










(c)


to leverage SALW and ammunition control in broader peace and security efforts frameworks to more effectively prevent armed violence and promote peace and development.






3.   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 (‘HR’) shall be responsible for implementing this Decision.


2.   The technical implementation of the project referred to in Article 1 shall be carried out by the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA).


3.   The UNODA shall perform its tasks under the responsibility of the HR. For that purpose, the HR shall enter into the necessary arrangements with the UNODA.



Article 3

1.   The financial reference amount for the implementation of the project financed by the Union shall be EUR 4 399 030,86.


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 general budget of the Union.


3.   The Commission shall supervise the proper management of the expenditure referred to in paragraph 1. For that purpose, it shall conclude the necessary financing agreement with the UNODA. The financing agreement shall stipulate that the UNODA has to ensure the visibility of the Union’s contribution, appropriate to its size.


4.   The Commission shall endeavour to conclude the financing 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 financing agreement.



Article 4

1.   The HR shall report to the Council on the implementation of this Decision on the basis of regular narrative reports prepared by the UNODA. Those reports shall form the basis of the evaluation to be carried out by the Council.


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 financing agreement referred to in Article 3(3). However, it shall expire 6 months after the date of its entry into force if no such financing agreement has been concluded within that period.





Done at Brussels, 15 December 2025.


For the Council


The President

K. KALLAS
            





(1)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/1965 of 17 October 2022 in support of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (OJ L 270, 18.10.2022, p. 67, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2022/1965/oj).




ANNEX



Project document
for a Council Decision (CFSP) in support of the Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons and the Global Framework on Ammunition

I.   BACKGROUND

Small arms and light weapons (SALW) and their ammunition are the leading cause of violent deaths, in conflict and non-conflict settings. In fact, every two minutes, a life is lost to ammunition fired from small arms globally.
Both the demand and supply of SALW and conventional ammunition are intensifying as a result of geopolitical tensions, regional instabilities and the increasing outbreak of armed conflict. Past conflicts and political uncertainty have shown that even legally acquired weapons and ammunition are at risk of being diverted to unauthorized users, perpetuating instability far beyond their points of origin. In fragile contexts, the widespread availability of SALW and ammunition fuels ongoing armed violence, organized crime and thwarts sustainable development.
The multifaceted problem of illicit SALW and conventional ammunition requires concerted effort at international, regional, subregional, national levels and grassroots to prevent their devastating human costs. Crucial steps to prevent diversion and to eradicate the illicit trade in SALW recognized by the EU Strategy ‘Securing Arms, Protecting Citizens’ and EU Council Conclusions of 14 April 2025 on Arms Export Control include: strengthening multilateral commitments, such as the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UN PoA), the International Tracing Instrument (ITI) and the new Global Framework for Through-life Conventional Ammunition Management (GFA), and enhancing technical implementation through measures like stockpile management (including through support for capacity building of third states), record-keeping, transfer controls and tracing.
Further, and as recognized in the Pact for the Future adopted by UN Member States in 2024, practical SALW and ammunition control tools can be leveraged to prevent armed violence and armed conflicts. Integration of these practices in National Prevention Strategies, peacebuilding efforts and sustainable development plans will build resilience in States and communities, and combat the demand for these weapons and ammunition.

Opportunity for progress

In a strained multilateral environment for advancing global commitments and cooperation on disarmament and arms control, multilateral cooperation on small arms and light weapons and conventional ammunition stands out as areas of forward progress. For instance, in 2023, the UN General Assembly added to its international disarmament commitments through the adoption of the GFA, the first dedicated instrument to address safety and security risks across the ammunition lifecycle, with the aim to prevent diversion and illicit trafficking and to mitigate unplanned explosions.
In 2024, States at the Fourth Review Conference on the UN Programme of Action (PoA) and International Tracing Instrument (ITI) adopted by consensus of a forward-looking outcome document. States collectively agreed on ways to further combat illicit SALW, including through the establishment of a new State-led Open-ended Technical Expert Group (OETEG) to address developments in SALW manufacturing, technology and design, on improving gender-responsive SALW control and on enhancing the participation of young people in SALW control processes.
States have opportunities in the next three years to further drive collective commitments and accelerate the implementation of these critical frameworks at all levels and in line with the EU’s strategic directions. The first ever meeting of States under the GFA will take place in 2027, while the UN PoA will hold two biennial meetings of States in 2026 and 2028, including the first convening of the OETEG. The success of all these meetings depends on (i) strong preparatory work, with regional meetings that serve as essential building blocks for negotiated action, and (ii) ensuring inclusive and effective participation from diverse States and organizations.

Recognizing the achievements and impact of previous projects

Through recent EU support, including EU Council decision (CFSP) 2022/1965, the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), its regional centres and implementing partners have established multilayer support to States. By leveraging the UN’s unique convening position as well as its role as Secretariat of relevant intergovernmental processes, along with its presence in Africa, Asia and the Pacific and Latin America and the Caribbean, UNODA and its implementing partners were able to assist States in strengthening global frameworks while also translating them into technical implementation.
For example, the project facilitated global policy development in the context of the PoA through extensive preparatory work of the Review Conference such as a series of expert seminars and regional preparatory meetings which ensured identification and alignment of national and regional priorities. These advanced conversations led to more effective and smoother negotiations at the Conference, which ultimately produced a consensus outcome document.
At the regional and national levels, the project facilitated regional cooperation including the development of a Central American and Dominican Republic Roadmap to Prevent the Illicit Trafficking and Proliferation of Firearms, Ammunition and Explosives, and significantly expanded national capacities on SALW control. It delivered specialized training in combating illicit arms trafficking in El Salvador, Guatemala, Colombia, and capacity-building to national contact points in Asia and the Pacific resulting in the highest submission of national reports on the Programme of Action in a decade. In Sri Lanka, armoury facilities were constructed to enhance stockpile security, and officers received training on weapons management. In Papua New Guinea, where illicit SALW continued to rise and represent a challenge in throughout the project period, UNODA provided technical risk assessments and the development of a National Action Plan on SALW. In the Gambia and Burundi, the project supported the establishment of SALW National Action Plans, and in Burundi faulty marking machines were repaired while in the Democratic Republic of Congo, targeted assistance on tracing of illicit SALW were delivered. Moreover, the Modular Small-arms-control Implementation Compendium (MOSAIC) self-assessment tool (1) was launched to enable national authorities to review and improve SALW systems in areas like marking, tracing, and stockpile management.
Gender mainstreaming in SALW control was also strengthened under the project through regional coordination, seminars, and national training. These efforts resulted in the integration of gender considerations into national action plans, and institutional exchange between gender and SALW practitioners. While global financial support for civil society organizations declined over the project period, the project managed to uphold and expand important community-based engagement through targeted advocacy campaigns, grassroots initiatives, and civil society organizations’ participation in multilateral meetings.

A project designed on proven approaches while addressing emerging trends

The achievements, partnerships and momentum built under the previous project will serve to underpin the next phase as key structural and strategic components will remain. Gender mainstreaming continues to be a core principle, and partnerships with civil society and specialized organizations, such as the International Action Network on Small Arms (IANSA) and the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) are maintained. The project also preserves its complementarity with other EU-funded project, with additional focus on synergies for technical implementation with initiatives including those implemented by the UNDP-SEESAC, OAS, LAS, OSCE, GICHD-AMAT, CAR, and SAS, as well as with Arms Trade Treaty-related efforts led by BAFA and Expertise France and with EMPACT.
The new phase of the project also introduces new elements. Most notably by broadening the thematic coverage to include both the GFA and the Pact for the Future. It places increased emphasis on technological developments in the area of SALW, recognizing their evolving impact through both challenges and opportunities for arms control. Additionally, the project strengthens the integration of SALW and ammunition control into broader prevention and peacebuilding efforts, aligning with comprehensive approaches for sustainable peace and development. Finally, the geographical scope of the project is broadened to also cover the Middle East and North Africa, in addition to Africa, Asia and the Pacific and Latin America and the Caribbean covered under the previous project.
II.   PROJECT OBJECTIVES, OUTCOMES AND ACTIVITIES

The project’s overriding objective is to reduce the prevalence of illicit arms and ammunition and prevent their devastating human cost through strengthening relevant international frameworks. It will accomplish this by strengthening global policy frameworks and translating them into action through supporting multilateral processes, regional cooperation and targeted national support, contributing to combating illicit SALW and ammunition, while helping to prevent armed violence and conflict. The project is designed to build resilience of States and civil society organizations to prevent the illicit trafficking of arms and ammunition due to diversion and to strengthen weapons and ammunition management globally.
This objective will be achieved through downstream and upstream approaches at local, national, sub-regional, regional and global levels, across three pillars to achieve the following sub-objectives:






1.


Strengthening forward-looking and action-oriented policy outcomes under the UN GFA, PoA and ITI










2.


Support the coordinated and strengthened implementation of the international instruments at the national, subregional and regional level










3.


Leverage SALW and ammunition control in broader peace and security efforts frameworks to more effectively prevent armed violence and sustain peace and development.




Cross-cutting expected outcomes include:






—


Increased coordination with relevant organizations, including through other projects funded by the EU.










—


Strengthened civil society’s engagement at all levels.










—


A mainstreamed gender perspective throughout project activities.





Objective 1: Strengthening forward-looking and action-oriented policy outcomes under the UN GFA, PoA and ITI.

1.2   Outcomes







—


Member States are well informed of the objectives and measures of the GFA, supporting more prepared participation and submission of voluntary initial overviews ahead of the First Meeting of States on the GFA.










—


Member States and relevant stakeholders have strengthened technical knowledge and capacity on the implementation of the PoA and ITI and developments in SALW manufacturing, technology, and design, leading to more informed Biennial Meetings of States and the deliberations of the OETEG. Participation in intergovernmental processes on SALW and ammunition is inclusive and representative of affected States and a broad range of stakeholders.




1.3   Activities

1.3.1   Global Framework on Ammunition: Regional Preparatory meetings for the first Meeting of States

Ahead of the first Meeting of States on the GFA in 2027, a series of regional preparatory meetings are held to provide a platform for States and regional organizations to identify region-specific ammunition management challenges and priorities. Special focus will be given to support preparations for submission of voluntary initial overviews in 2026. A summary report will be made available to the Chair, outlining key discussions points of the meetings for use in deliberations. Each meeting will also serve to enhance knowledge on practical national implementation within regional contexts.








Countries from subregions




Regional centre




Indicative Venue





Caribbean
Latin America


UNLIREC


Virtual (two meetings)




South Asia
Southeast Asia
Central Asia
Northeast Asia
the Pacific


UNRCPD


Kathmandu, Nepal (one meeting)




Middle East
North Africa


UNRCPD and UNREC


Location to be decided (one meeting)




East Africa
Southern Africa
West Africa
Central Africa


UNREC


Locations to be decided (two meetings)




1.3.2   Development of action-oriented recommendations in support of the first Meeting of States on the Global Framework on Ammunition in 2027

A series of virtual expert roundtables are organized, and the findings and recommendations of each roundtable will be translated and published online for States to consider ahead of the Meeting of States. These reports will also be presented and discussed at the regional preparatory meetings and could serve as a contribution to States’ deliberations on themes of future governmental technical experts meetings.
1.3.3   Expert webinars to generate substantive material and build regional capacity on developments in SALW manufacturing, technology and design

The OETEG on developments in SALW technologies, manufacturing and design will convene within the week of the Biennial Meetings of States in 2026 and 2028, tasked with developing agreed recommendations by consensus for consideration by States within the PoA political process by 2030. To respond to the needs of States and the Chair in the intersessional period, regional and global virtual webinars for experts and diplomats will be held to generate knowledge, build capacity and inform the development of recommendations.
1.3.4   Sponsorship for participants of developing or severely affected States to attend key intergovernmental Meetings on SALW and Ammunition

Many developing countries or those severely affected by SALW and ammunition are often unable to attend the New York-based conferences. A sponsorship programme for selected countries will enable more diverse participation, thus enriching the deliberations at the 2027 GFA Meeting of States and other meetings under the UN PoA as needed.
Participants will be identified by UNODA, including its regional centres, based on established criteria to ensure diverse participation The sponsorship will include a capacity-building component to develop knowledge on the substantive content of the discussions as well as developing skills to participate in the political process, and a networking component to bring together participants. Where relevant, the sponsorship considers collaboration with the UN-led fellowships on SALW and Ammunition. The sponsorship will prioritize equal, full, and effective participation of women.
1.3.5   Enhanced civil society participation in global intergovernmental processes

Ahead of the GFA Meeting of States and the Biennial Meeting of States on the PoA including the OETEG, IANSA will produce materials including a guide to coordinate priorities and strategies for civil society engagement. Additionally, a sponsorship programme for civil society, including youth representatives, to attend the meetings will be conducted.
1.4   Outputs







i.


Up to six (6) regional preparatory meetings are organized for the GFA.










ii.


Up to four (4) virtual expert roundtables on ammunition are held ahead of the 2027 Meeting of States on the GFA.










iii.


Up to eight (8) global and regional virtual expert webinars in the intersessional period of the OETEG are held.










iv.


Sponsorship of up to fifteen (15) participants from developing or severely affected States to attend political conferences.










v.


A sponsorship programme and guide for civil society organizations to enhance representation and substantive contribution to the PoA and GFA processes.





Objective 2: Support the coordination and strengthened implementation of the international instruments at the national, subregional and regional level

2.2.   Outcomes







—


Enhanced implementation of the UN PoA, ITI and GFA through national assistance to States and development of enhanced tools.










—


Strengthened regional coordination to reduce illicit SALW and ammunition.




2.3   Activities

2.3.1   Enhancing MOSAIC and strengthening the MOSAIC Assessment Tool

The awareness and utility of the MOSAIC Assessment Tool is enhanced through rollout and multistakeholder training as well as development of additional assessment criteria and new features for the software component. Based on user feedback, the repository of assessment criteria of the MOSAIC Assessment Tool will be expanded to cover additional MOSAIC modules, thereby enabling assessments on other relevant areas of SALW control. These activities will be implemented in collaboration with UNIDIR and Member States.
2.3.2   Support States to strengthen implementation efforts and cooperation of the UN PoA/ITI and the Global Framework on Ammunition

In Asia-Pacific implemented by UNRCPD






—



Support to the ASEAN Declaration on Combating Arms Smuggling: To reduce the illicit proliferation of arms and ammunition in ASEAN States, a series of sub-regional seminars, workshops, and work sessions will be held, including thematic meetings, peer-to-peer exchanges and visits to translate the political commitments of the ASEAN Declaration into actionable objectives, targets, and indicators, while also supporting other relevant regional mechanisms. UNRCPD will provide guidance throughout the process, working alongside relevant regional stakeholders, including civil society organizations and regional bodies such as the ASEAN. The initiative will align with the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime and other relevant regional fora to ensure synergy and integration with existing mechanisms. The initiative will involve implementing partners and additional donors to support the process, ensuring coordination and secure sustainable support for the implementation of the ASEAN Declaration. Furthermore, the activities will promote synergies with other key frameworks, such as the ASEAN Regional Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, aligning regional political commitments with broader peace and security agendas.










—



Strengthening role of the National Points of Contacts (NPCs) and coordination mechanisms under the UN PoA and the GFA: Building on UNRCPD’s previous work in establishing regional cooperation mechanisms, such as the PoA NPCs community for Asia-Pacific and the Regional Cooperation Mechanism on Conventional Arms launched in 2023, this initiative aims to expand the PoA NPC community to include government officials working on the GFA.










—



Assessments and in-country assistance in up to three countries: Dedicated assistance will be provided at the national level to support regulatory frameworks, the design and management of SALW and ammunition control systems, and operational support as requested. This support could include training, workshops, meetings, data collection, technical assistance and/or research activities, and will ensure that all activities are gender-responsive and inclusive. The initiative will assist up to three beneficiary states, including one Middle East country, in coordination with other relevant actors, and will serve as a catalyst to complement other funding streams, including SALIENT, UNSCAR, and the Arms Trade Treaty Voluntary Trust Fund, to bolster regional capacity and enhance coordination in SALW control and ammunition management.




In Africa implemented by UNREC






—



Four in-country assistance activities, including two assessments: Building on the delivery of assessment missions and in-country assistance for the development of National Action plans (NAP) on SALW in Burundi and in The Gambia, UNREC will sustain its support to these two countries in implementing their NAPs. Also, the center will extend support to two additional selected States in strengthening their national SALW control and/or ammunition management capacities. Selected countries may receive assistance using the MOSAIC Assessment Tool and be provided with technical support and targeted capacity-building to strengthen implementation of the global frameworks based on their needs assessment. As part of the offer of assistance, UNREC is expanding beyond SALW control to also cover ammunition management and support for the implementation of the GFA, including support for reporting and submission of initial overviews. The assistance will promote the use of existing assessment tools on ammunition.










—



Fostering a continental community of practitioners for SALW and ammunition control: Building on UNREC’s engagement with a wide range of experts on SALW and ammunition on the African continent, the initiative will encompass a series of online sessions for national authorities, technical experts, civil society organizations, academia, continental and regional institutions, and relevant UN entities. Fostering the continental community of practitioners on SALW and ammunition will create a platform of reflections/engagements to i) boost the implementation of international, continental, regional and national instruments on illicit SALW and ammunition management; ii) share lessons learnt and best practices for the effective implementation of arms control initiatives; and iii) formulate key policy and action-oriented recommendations to counter the rapid proliferation of SALW and ammunition. For instance, key thematics including the impact of emerging technologies on SALW and disarmament education involving youth may be discussed.




In Latin America and the Caribbean implemented by UNLIREC






—



Support development of an ANDEAN Roadmap: Development of a Roadmap for Andean States (Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru) with a view to support the operationalization of the Resolution Action Plan of Decision 922 on Security (Plan de Acción Resolutivo de la Decisión 922 en materia de Seguridad), adopted in January 2024 by the Andean Community. The Plan includes, among other priorities, enhanced cooperation to combat arms trafficking. Activities will consist of sub-regional seminars, workshops, and technical working sessions (including drafting and thematic meetings). The development of the roadmap will be carried out in collaboration with the Department of Public Security of the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Secretariat of the Andean Community (Communidad Andina, CAN), complementing actions under the EU Council Decision (CFSP) adopted on 16 July 2025.










—



Strengthening ammunition marking practices in Latin America and the Caribbean in support of the implementation of the Global Framework on Ammunition. Ammunition marking in Latin America and the Caribbean is strengthened through the development of a regional publication of good practices, updated training materials, and work with national authorities to enhance marking practices including through the delivery of marking courses in selected countries. Technical capabilities of ballistic and forensic laboratories are enhanced through specialized training on weapons marking recovery. Separately, national efforts to combat and interdict illicit trafficking of weapons and ammunition may be supported through targeted capacity-building courses.




2.3.3.   
                           Booklet and targeted assistance to civil society and parliamentarians in up to three (3) countries on effective support to national authorities to implement the UN PoA/ITI and the GFA: Given the highly developed expertise of some national civil society organizations in issues related to the UN PoA, ITI and GFA, a set of assistance to pilot organizations and parliamentarians is conducted in up to three countries. The assistance includes a booklet aiming at supporting the universalization of the GFA under the main angle ‘what can civil society do?’ including how to utilize materials and tools produced by other EU-Council decision projects by UNODA and other partner organizations as well as support national reporting or target-setting. The assistance will be a concrete contribution to Objective 15 of the GFA.
2.4   Outputs







i.


The MOSAIC Assessment Tool is updated with additional user-friendly features and criteria, based on user feedback.










ii.


Training on and utilization of the MOSAIC Assessment Tool by diverse stakeholders (including linked to Activity 2.3.3 as feasible).










iii.


In Asia Pacific:






a.


Action Plan of the ASEAN Declaration on combating arms smuggling in southeast Asia is developed.










b.


Assistance mapping sessions and virtual training workshops for NPCs.










c.


Development of a Toolkit for NPCs.










d.


Assessments and in-country assistance in up to three countries.














iv.


In Africa:






a.


MOSAIC assessments in up to two (2) countries.










b.


Technical in-country assistance in up to four (4) States to implement the UN PoA, ITI and GFA and promote existing tools.










c.


The continental community of practitioners for SALW and ammunition holds quarterly sessions, for a total of 12 online and hybrid events.














v.


In Latin America and the Caribbean:






a.


A Roadmap for Andean States to Prevent the Illicit Trafficking and Proliferation of Firearms, Ammunition and Explosives is developed together with the Organization of American States and the Secretariat of the Andean Community and adopted.










b.


One (1) paper on ammunition marking in Latin America and the Caribbean is produced, analyzing regional challenges, effective practices and developing practical recommendations.










c.


UNLIREC's SALW marking course and related materials are revised and expanded to include additional content on ammunition marking.










d.


Up to four (4) in-person courses/workshops on ammunition or SALW marking and/or on strengthening efforts to combat illicit SALW and ammunition trafficking delivered in Latin America and the Caribbean.










e.


Ballistic and forensic laboratories in the region benefit from capacity-building through a practical course on the recovery of weapons markings.










f.


Capacity-building for ballistic and forensic laboratories through practical course on recovery of weapons marking carried out in at least two (2) countries in Latin America and/or the Caribbean.














vi.


A booklet for civil society and/or parliamentarians, to support governments upon request for implementing the UN PoA, ITI and the GFA through existing tools and piloted in up to three (3) countries.





Objective 3: Leverage SALW and ammunition control in broader peace and security efforts to more effectively prevent armed violence and sustain peace and development.

3.2   Outcomes







—


Strengthen collective efforts to prevent armed violence and sustain peace through SALW and ammunition control.










—


Contribute to implementation of the Pact for the Future through integration of SALW control and ammunition management in national prevention, peacebuilding and sustainable development efforts.










—


Strengthen gender-responsive SALW control efforts.










—


Strengthen cooperation with civil society organizations and young people to reduce the demand for illicit SALW and ammunition and implement the PoA, ITI and GFA.




3.3   Activities

3.3.1   Development of a ‘package of support’ for the integration of SALW control and ammunition management into prevention and peacebuilding efforts

A package of support for States to integrate SALW control and ammunition management into national prevention strategies, peacebuilding activities and development plans will be developed. The package will include a range of products such as a mapping of existing prevention and SALW/ammunition initiatives and actors; a guidance note on good practices for strengthening linkages between these areas; development of customizable examples of national targets for States’ use; a new MOSAIC module on preventing armed violence (translated in at least two languages); and a global awareness raising and outreach campaign. These materials, along with other relevant existing resources, will be featured on a dedicated website on SALW control and ammunition management and sustaining peace that can serve as a resource hub for States in their efforts in this regard.
3.3.2   Data collection toolkit on SALW and ammunition

A toolkit for States and relevant organizations is developed to provide good practices and guidance for gender/sex, age and disability disaggregated data indicators and variables related to SALW and ammunition. The toolkit will also provide guidance on ethical data collection and privacy, will provide references to existing work in this area, including that developed under the Arms Trade Treaty, and may be featured on the ‘resource hub’.
3.3.3   Development and launch of African/AU Operational Guidance Note on Gender, SALW and Ammunition

UNREC and the African Union will develop an Operational Guidance Note on Gender, SALW and Ammunition. This will support operationalization of the UNODA-AU cooperation matrix signed in 2023 and will implement key recommendations of the UNREC Gender and Disarmament workshops held in 2025, through which initial consultations on and scoping of the note took place. The note will provide guidance on developing gender-responsive SALW policymaking and programming, supporting women’s full, equal, and effective participation in arms control decision-making and developing of national action plans that integrate gender and youth perspectives and needs. The note will also provide guidance on best practices for data collection, monitoring and evaluation on gender-sensitive SALW programs (linked to Activity 3.3.2).
3.3.4   Support an informal network of youth experts on SALW and ammunition to promote their work to prevent violence and implement relevant global frameworks

This initiative will foster an informal, youth-led network of experts in the field of SALW and ammunition, enabling knowledge-sharing, coordination of actions, and amplification of their papers and voices in UN-supported activities on the UN PoA, ITI and GFA, with a focus on contributions to violence prevention and sustaining peace. Where feasible, youth experts will be invited to participate in the Project’s activities under pillars I and II (ex. Activities 1.3.1, 1.3.2, 1.3.3, 2.3.2 and 2.3.3).
3.3.5   Preventing Firearms in Schools Initiative

Awareness and institutional capacity to address the presence of firearms in schools in Latin America and the Caribbean is strengthened through national webinars, dissemination of educational materials, and/or tailored technical support to States, including the development of guidelines for school authorities to prevent and respond to firearm-related incidents.
3.3.6   Civil society small grants programme

A small grants programme for civil society is conducted to support fact-based advocacy initiatives by relevant civil society organizations to constructively engage relevant authorities and the public. Some small grants will be provided in connection with the regional preparatory meetings on ammunition (Activity 1.3.1).
3.3.7   Engagement in broader peace and security and development fora

Expert engagement in other relevant peace and security and development fora will help to promote SALW and conventional ammunition control in achieving peace and security objectives and the sustainable development goals, including Goals 5 (gender equality and empowerment) and Goals 16 (peaceful and inclusive societies). Participation in networks such as the Women, Peace and Security Focal Points Network and The Pathfinders’ Halving Global Violence campaign will enable UNODA to seize on synergies to promote comprehensive approaches to peace and security and identify opportunities to engage a wider community on the importance of SALW and ammunition control to achieve mutual goals.
3.4   Outputs







i.


A resource package on integrating SALW control and ammunition management into prevention and peacebuilding efforts:






a.


A mapping of initiatives and actors addressing SALW/ammunition and prevention and peacebuilding.










b.


Development of a guidance note on good practices for linking SALW control and ammunition management in national prevention efforts, in line with the Pact for the Future and the Secretary-General’s ‘A New Agenda for Peace’.










c.


A list of customizable national targets that can be used in national action plans and strategies addressing SALW, ammunition, WPS, YPS and prevention frameworks.










d.


Development of MOSAIC module 02.10 ‘Small arms and light weapons control in the context of preventing armed violence’ to be translated into at least two languages.










e.


Outreach and communications campaign focused on linking SALW control and ammunition management for more effective prevention and peacebuilding.










f.


Online website (‘resource hub’) for States to access tools and options for support in integrating SALW control and ammunition management into broader prevention, peacebuilding and sustainable development efforts.














ii.


Publication of a toolkit to enhance collection of data related to SALW and ammunition control and disaggregated by gender, age and disability.










iii.


Publication of an African/African Union Operational Guidance Note on Gender, SALW and Ammunition.










iv.


Creation of an informal network of young people with expertise in prevention through SALW and ammunition control.










v.


Preventing Firearms in Schools’ initiative for Latin America and Caribbean States, which may include awareness raising webinars, the delivery of education material, and/or the provision of technical support to a selected country on the planning, conceptualization, drafting and completion of guidelines for school authorities to prevent and respond to the presence and use of firearms in schools.










vi.


A grants programme to empower relevant civil society organizations to strengthen community-level action and youth engagement for SALW control and ammunition management in affected communities.










vii.


Continued engagement in the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) National Focal Point Network, Security Council WPS Informal Experts Group and the UN-Action network against Conflict-related Sexual Violence, as well as the Pathfinder’s Halving Global Violence campaign.




3.   OUTREACH AND PARTNERSHIPS

Building on past EU-UNODA cooperation, and through the UN’s global convening power, the project will link key UN entities, governments, regional organizations, civil society, and research institutions.
The project will support the dissemination of information and outputs of the proposed activities to a broad and diverse audience. Furthermore, outreach will be undertaken within all relevant actions through media engagement, side events and web tools.
UNODA and its implementing partners will generate sustained impact through effective awareness-raising, advocacy, outreach, and partnerships. UNODA will make use of a range of communication tools, including a webpage, new outreach campaign, written press releases, Saving Lives Bulletin, select social media tools, side events and informal briefings. The implementation of all actions will be tracked through monitoring and evaluation tools, including participant surveys and regular meetings of the respective working groups.
UNODA will take all appropriate measures to ensure proper visibility of the European Union’s contribution to the action. Such measures will be carried out in accordance with the Commission’s Communication and Visibility Manual for European Union External Actions.
Coordination with a wide range of partners, including those benefiting from other EU Council Decisions, will be ensured throughout the project implementation. UNODA will promote the use of technical tools for assessing, marking, tracing, physical security and stockpile management, with due regard for those funded or co-funded by the EU.
UNODA will continue to engage to promote the project and its outcomes by participating in relevant networks, forums or groups, and continue to manage the informal Coordination Mechanism on Gender and SALW, which was established under the previous EU-funded project in 2019.
4.   BENEFICIARIES

This project will benefit diverse stakeholders related to small arms and light weapons control and ammunition management. This includes regional organizations, national authorities and/or security services and defence forces as well as civil society operating at the national and community-levels in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean, and North Africa and the Middle East. Furthermore, this project will also collaborate with national authorities and civil society working on prevention and peacebuilding, strengthening mutual efforts to reduce armed violence. In the project’s dedicated focus on more inclusive approaches to peace and security, women, youth and other marginalized groups will also be beneficiaries.
5.   DURATION

The total estimated duration of the project, including all activities under its three pillars, will be 36 months.
6.   REPORTING

UNODA will prepare regular reports in line with the negotiated agreement.




(1)  The Assessment Tool is a software tool to support assessment based on good practice criteria in area like stockpile management, marking and tracing of SALW and was developed under EU Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/1965.



ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2025/2565/oj
ISSN 1977-0677 (electronic edition)