The illicit and global trade of small arms, light weapons and military equipment has been an increasing cause of instability, violence and death across the world. For this reason, it is essential that front line officers are capable of detecting and identifying military goods entering and exiting their borders.

The Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Project, together with the Strategic Trade Control Enforcement (STCE) Programme, organized a webinar in order to raise awareness on the matter and provide some useful guidance to Customs officers around the world on the identification of military goods.

The webinar has been conducted twice, on 21 and 22 September 2021, respectively in the morning and afternoon (Brussels time), in order to allow as many officers as possible to attend. The World Customs Organization (WCO) counted on the support of the Small Arms Survey, the German Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) and the United Kingdom Border Force, which presented their different perspectives on the implications of a large scale diversion of military goods. A representative from Global Affairs Canada, donor of the STCE Programme, delivered closing remarks on both days, highlighting the importance of this event in sharing practical information and strengthening cooperation among Customs.

The webinar has been attended by around 1000 delegates from around the world, which testifies the relevance of the threat caused by illicit trade of military goods and the need for Customs Administrations to enhance their knowledge in the field.

The WCO will continue to address security threats and support WCO members in their fight against terrorism and trafficking of weapons and military equipment. For more information on the Security programme and its projects and activities, visit the WCO websiteor contact WCOSecurityProgramme@wcoomd.org.