Mitigating Small Arms Laundering: Designing Policy Interventions for Trans-Eurasian Illicit Weapon Pipelines

Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies | Vol. 4, No. 11, November 2013 | pp. 307–315

DOI: 10.46882/2013/GJPCS/000056

Article Type: Policy Analysis Paper

Title: Mitigating Small Arms Laundering: Designing Policy Interventions for Trans-Eurasian Illicit Weapon Pipelines

Names of Authors: Dmitry Ivanov¹, Stefan Lindqvist²

Authors’ Affiliations: ¹Institute for Security and Counter-Terrorism Studies, Kyiv, Ukraine; ²Department of Peace and Conflict Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden

Abstract: Abstract: The diversion of state firearm stockpiles into black-market distribution networks presents a significant structural challenge to citizen security across Eurasian transit corridors. This policy analysis evaluates the strategic enforcement gaps within regional maritime and overland border crossings from 2008 to 2012. By analyzing international weapon seizure registries, custom ballistic data exchanges, and policy briefs, this paper measures the deterrent value of integrated end-user certificate verification protocols. The assessment reveals that fragmented cross-border database structures enable illicit brokers to execute weapon laundering schemes with minimal detection risks. Quantitative regression tracking indicates that implementing automated real-time customs data verification models reduces illicit cargo transit successful completions by 36% (Beta = -0.42, p < 0.001). The policy analysis identifies that institutional weaknesses, including a lack of decentralized digital marking systems at production points, compromise international tracking regimes. The paper recommends establishing a binding trans-regional tracking framework supported by centralized ballistic registries and harmonized criminal justice definitions across neighboring transit states.

Keywords: Weapon Laundering, Illicit Arms Pipelines, Policy Intervention, Eurasian Border Security, Ballistic Tracking, Customs Integration, End-User Verification

Manuscript Timeline: Received: June 15, 2013; Revised: August 29, 2013; Accepted: September 19, 2013; Published: November 14, 2013

Citation: Ivanov, D., & Lindqvist, S. (2013). Mitigating Small Arms Laundering: Designing Policy Interventions for Trans-Eurasian Illicit Weapon Pipelines. Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, 4(11), 307–315. DOI: 10.46882/2013/GJPCS/000056

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