The Scope and Implications of a Tracing Mechanism for Small Arms ...
The Scope and Implications of a Tracing Mechanism for Small Arms ...
The Scope and Implications of a Tracing Mechanism for Small Arms ...
You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
171<br />
legibility <strong>and</strong> durability <strong>of</strong> the marking <strong>and</strong> its content, at least once a<br />
year. <strong>The</strong> manufacturers may choose the verifying body, <strong>and</strong> in the EU,<br />
there is at least one organization in each country. In addition,<br />
manufacturers must systematically carry out internal controls.<br />
<strong>The</strong> OAS Convention<br />
• Newly manufactured firearms must be marked with the name <strong>of</strong> the<br />
manufacturer, the place <strong>of</strong> manufacture <strong>and</strong> the serial number (Article<br />
VI.1.a);<br />
• Imported firearms must be marked to permit the identification <strong>of</strong> the<br />
name <strong>and</strong> address <strong>of</strong> the importer (Article VI.1.b.);<br />
• Firearms that have been confiscated <strong>and</strong> retained <strong>for</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficial use must<br />
be marked appropriately (Article VI.1.c);<br />
• Explosives <strong>and</strong> rocket launchers should, if possible, must be marked at<br />
time <strong>of</strong> manufacture (Article VI.2.).<br />
<strong>The</strong> SADC Protocol<br />
• States parties undertake to establish common systems to ensure that all<br />
firearms are marked with a unique number, at the time <strong>of</strong> manufacture<br />
or import, on the barrel, frame, <strong>and</strong>, where applicable, the slide (Article<br />
9.1.);<br />
• This marking shall identify the country <strong>of</strong> manufacture, the serial<br />
number <strong>and</strong> the manufacturer <strong>of</strong> the firearm (Article 9.2.).<br />
<strong>The</strong> OSCE Document<br />
• It is incumbent on each participating State to determine the exact<br />
nature <strong>of</strong> the marking system <strong>for</strong> small arms manufactured or in use on<br />
its territory (Article II.2.B.1.). However, the States simultaneously<br />
endeavour to develop st<strong>and</strong>ards, principles <strong>and</strong> measures concerning<br />
appropriate marking (as well as durable <strong>and</strong> precise registration) in<br />
international <strong>for</strong>a (Article I.2.);<br />
• <strong>The</strong> participating States agree to ensure that all small arms<br />
manufactured on their territory after 30 June 2001 are marked so as to<br />
enable individual small arms to be traced. <strong>The</strong> marking should contain<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mation that allows the investigating authorities to determine at<br />
least the year <strong>and</strong> country <strong>of</strong> manufacture, the manufacturer <strong>and</strong> the