System of entities combating illegal circulation of firearms and the specific features of their administrative and legal status
Abstract
The article emphasises that the system of subjects of counteraction to the illicit trafficking of firearms is a dynamic, adaptive mechanism that requires constant improvement, taking into account changes in the security environment, technological progress, social challenges and international obligations of Ukraine. The successful functioning of this system is possible only under the condition of coordinated, comprehensive, professional and proactive activities of all its elements on the principles of legality, responsibility and partnership.
It is emphasised that the system of counteraction to the illicit trafficking of firearms in Ukraine includes central executive bodies, in particular the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, the National Police of Ukraine, the State Border Service of Ukraine, the Security Service of Ukraine, the State Customs Service of Ukraine, prosecutor’s offices, expert institutions, local self-government bodies, public organisations, research institutions, and higher education institutions, as well as international institutions that provide analytical, technical and advisory support.
It has been established that an important characteristic of the current stage of development of the system for combating the illicit trafficking of firearms in Ukraine is its gradual transformation in accordance with new security challenges, caused by both internal and external factors. In particular, the special security conditions of martial law have significantly increased the risks of the spread of weapons among the population, have led to the need for more flexible and operational mechanisms for identifying and neutralising illegal channels of their circulation, and have also put forward new requirements for regulatory regulation, staffing and technical equipment of law enforcement agencies.
Attention is drawn to the leading role of international cooperation, which opens access to the latest technologies, standards, training resources and best practices. The synergy of national and international efforts in combating the illicit trafficking of weapons allows increasing the ability of Ukrainian institutions to act in accordance with the requirements of modern security policy and strengthen their legal system.
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