OSCE-supported SALW Training, enhances border security in Kyrgyzstan

The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, in co-operation with the Conflict Prevention Centre/Forum for Security Cooperation of the OSCE Secretariat, successfully concluded the second module of the training course “Combatting Illicit Trafficking of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW), Ammunition, and Explosives” in Osh. Held from 18–21 November 2024, the training aimed to strengthen the capacities of Kyrgyzstan's Border Service officers in SALW identification, post-seizure record-keeping, information sharing, and tracing.

This module built on the foundation laid by the introductory session, focusing on practical skills such as marking analysis, post-seizure procedures, and data-sharing protocols. The training was delivered by international experts from the German Bundeswehr Verification Centre (BwVC), INTERPOL, and the US Department of State.

Twenty officers from the Border Service, including operational managers, frontline staff, and canine specialists, participated in interactive sessions and field exercises designed to simulate real-world scenarios. By the end of the training, participants demonstrated improved skills in detecting and tracing illicit arms, aligning their practices with international standards.

This initiative is part of the extrabudgetary project “Enhancing Ammunition Storage Safety in the OSCE Region,” funded by  Germany, Norway, UK and US, with additional expert support from Austria and Poland. The training reflects the OSCE’s commitment to supporting Kyrgyzstan in combating transnational threats and enhancing border security.