The document is supplemented by two new sub-sectors: the control of small arms and light weapons, and the phased integration of foreigners, including displaced persons.
“Achieving the goal of enhancing public security by implementing an effective and strict system of control over small arms and light weapons will contribute to strengthening the state’s capacity to control arms and ammunition in civilian circulation, including preventing and combating illicit trafficking in small arms, light weapons, their key components and related ammunition,” the strategy says.
The Interior Ministry emphasizes that these measures are part of the country’s commitments as part of the EU accession process.
The law will enter into force upon publication in the Official Gazette.
Earlier, the National Program for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) for 2026-2030, the first strategic document fully dedicated to this area, was adopted. The program was developed in response to the tense geopolitical situation and the increased risks of illicit trafficking of arms and explosives in the region. The document notes in particular that the war in Ukraine poses risks and threats to the Republic of Moldova in the illicit trafficking of small caliber weapons and light weapons.
The main objectives of the program include: bringing national legislation in line with EU standards in the field of weapons, ammunition and explosives; strengthening the capacity of state institutions responsible for arms control and monitoring; reducing the circulation of illegal weapons and encouraging the voluntary surrender of illegally stored weapons, etc.
In total, the program includes 48 concrete actions and has a budget of about 255 million lei, including external support.
Analyses carried out at the EU level, including in the Schengen area, show that Moldova has about 2.5 registered weapons per 100 inhabitants, whereas in the EU member states or in the Schengen area, every third or fourth citizen owns a weapon. At the same time, the number of gun owners in our country is constantly growing.
