Security Sector

Kosovo Small Arms Control Initiative (KOSSAC)

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Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) control is part of the UNDP's commitment to promoting human security and sustainable development in Kosovo. This has been achieved through the establishment of a national SALW commission, the development of a national small arms control strategy, the development of legal and regulatory frameworks covering civilian possession and sale of small arms, as well as addressing trafficking and cross-border proliferation issues. The project will be extended and broadened to generate capacity and transfer knowledge to the Kosovo authorities as they assume full responsibility for the control of small arms.

How is this being achieved?:

UNDP Kosovo is continuing the implementation of the Kosovo Small Arms Control Initiative (KOSSAC), launched in 2007, with a 24-month Phase 2 project plan. Designed to reduce armed violence in Kosovo within the overarching framework of democratic governance, KOSSAC Phase 2 supports the work of the Kosovo SALW Control Commission and their implementation of the Kosovo SALW Control Strategy as well as the Kosovo SALW Collection Strategy and its associated Action Plan. Implementation of the Action Plan will result in increased public confidence in security providers overall, and reduced public demand for small arms as a means of protection.

UNDP KOSSAC is providing support and advice to the implementation of the Kosovo SALW and Collection strategy which contains 11 Functional areas: 1. Cross Border Control; 2. Legislative framework; 3. Management Information; 4, SALW awareness; 5. SALW collection; 6. SALW Destruction; 7. Stockpile Management; 8. Capacity Development; 9. Safer Community Development; 10. Monitoring and evaluation; 11. Linkage to Security Sector Reform (SSR).

UNDP KOSSAC is providing this support through the implementation of key activities as technical advisors in all functional areas of the SALW control and collection strategies, making capacity development of the new established Department of Public Safety a top priority. The DPS has four functional sections: the Division for weapons and ammunition; 2. Private Security Industry division; 3. the Division for Community Safety and the Explosive Inspectorate.

Parallel to these activities UNDP KOSSAC is providing support to 6 municipalities which are implementing Safer Community plans in 12 locations. UNDP KOSSAC is also assisting 6 Community safety centers in the abovementioned municipalities. A special focus is being given to the involvement of youth.

Why?:

The proliferation and misuse of small arms poses a serious threat to Kosovo social and economic development, undermining prospects for sustainable peace and the basic prerequisites for human security. Mandated by the United Nations policy on Small Arms to address the socioeconomic consequences of small arms proliferation, UNDP Kosovo supports the Government of Kosovo and Kosovo civil society in the formulation and implementation of small arms reduction and control initiatives.

Who is involved?:

KOSSAC is implemented in close cooperation with Kosovo's authorities, and in partnership with the international community. Key stakeholders include the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Kosovo Police, the Office of the Prime Minister, and civil society.