The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina welcomes the adoption of the amendments to the Law on Weapons and Ammunition by the National Assembly of Republika Srpska.
These amendments constitute an important step in the modernization of the Republika Srpska legal framework governing civilian weapons and ammunition. They also contribute to strengthening Bosnia and Herzegovina's overall arms control framework by bringing legislation further into line with international standards and OSCE commitments.
The Mission particularly welcomes the targeted improvements introduced through the amendments, including clearer legal definitions, modernized provisions on weapons deactivation, and strengthened safeguards governing the seizure of weapons in situations where public safety may be at risk. These improvements will support more effective weapons control, enhanced traceability, and greater accountability in the possession and handling of weapons.
The Mission appreciates the constructive engagement of the competent authorities in Republika Srpska with OSCE technical experts throughout this process, including their consideration of recommendations aimed at strengthening the legal framework governing civilian weapons and ammunition.
The OSCE Mission remains committed to supporting authorities across Bosnia and Herzegovina in advancing effective, harmonized, and standards-based arms control reforms.
