Countering Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons Trafficking: Strategies and Challenges

1 INTRODUCTION The illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons is a pressing transnational challenge, posing severe threats to global security and stability. This complex issue remains today undefeated, perpetuating armed conflicts and violence, fueling organized crime, and undermining socio-economic development. The ease of availability and transportation of these weapons exacerbate the problem, requiring comprehensive analysis and effective countermeasures. Traditionally it is the State who has the responsibility to prosecute criminals involved in this type of crime, but it is not always effective in doing so. Several supra-State organizations and institutions, therefore, have developed mechanisms to support this fight by establishing common standards, fostering cooperation and information exchange, but without decisive effects in completely eradicating trafficking. This research aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the various dimensions of small arms and light weapons trafficking, to contribute to the understanding of the issue and to offer insights into potential strategies to address this pressing concern. The study primarily relies on scholarly articles, reports, national laws, official documents, international and regional treaties and documents. These sources provide a foundation for the analysis and enable a thorough investigation of the subject matter. Additionally, empirical data, such as statistical information will be incorporated to support the arguments and findings. The research is organized in four chapters. The first chapter establishes the foundation of the research by exploring the terminology surrounding the issue, the sources of illicit weapons, the actors involved, the size of the illicit market, the cross-border transportation techniques, and the humanitarian and socio-