Study on the Development of a Framework for Improving End-Use and End-User Control Systems

United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs' (UNODA) Occasional Papers is a series of ad hoc publications presenting, in edited form, papers or statement made at international meetings, symposiums, seminars or workshops organised by the Office for Disarmament Affairs. Mindful of the role that end-use certificates could play in preventing the diversion of authorized arms transfers - in particular regarding small arms and light weapons and their ammunition - UNODA decided to undertake this study to further enhance understanding of this highly topical issue. The study assesses existing practices regarding end-user certification in a wide range of countries. It examines concepts, documents and procedures relating to the regulation of end use and end users of conventional arms. It also endeavours to identify political and practical obstacles to the development of an international framework for authentication, reconciliation and standardisation of end-user certificates. Finally, it proposes practical guidelines to assist States in the development of a reliable system of end-user certification.