Firearms Verification Center Opens in Tuzla to Bolster Public Safety in Bosnia and Herzegovina

New Center Strengthens Firearms Control in Tuzla

Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina – A state-of-the-art Centre for Verification of Deactivated Firearms officially commenced operations on September 23, 2025, at the Ministry of Interior of Tuzla Canton. This crucial development, backed by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), is set to significantly enhance public safety and security within Bosnia and Herzegovina and across Europe.

The new facility is equipped with advanced technology designed to enable law enforcement agencies in Bosnia and Herzegovina to more effectively verify and certify deactivated firearms. The primary goal is to prevent their criminal misuse, a persistent challenge in the region.

Addressing the Threat of Reactivated Firearms

The establishment of the center directly addresses a critical security concern: the ease with which improperly deactivated firearms can be reactivated into fully functional military weapons. Variations in deactivation standards and verification processes have historically allowed many such weapons to be restored, posing a significant threat. The new center will ensure that deactivated firearms are rendered irreversibly inoperable, aligning with international standards and guidelines, such as those established by the European Commission (e.g., Regulation (EU) 2018/337).

International Partnership and Official Statements

The opening ceremony was attended by key officials, including Ambassador Rick Holtzapple, Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Mr. Dževad Korman, Director of the Police Administration of Tuzla Canton. Ambassador Holtzapple emphasized the broader impact of the initiative, stating, 'The Centre is not only a contribution to Bosnia and Herzegovina's security but also a vital step in enhancing safety and security across Europe. For communities and businesses across the country, this means greater trust and stronger security in homes and neighborhoods.'

Mr. Korman expressed gratitude for the support from the OSCE Mission and donor countries, which provided the necessary financial resources and modern equipment. He noted that the center 'will enable the Police Administration to consistently implement the Law on Weapons and Ammunition in the Tuzla Canton.' Financial contributions for the center's creation came from several donor countries, including Germany, France, the Czech Republic, and the U.S.

Broader Impact on Regional Security

The Centre for Verification of Deactivated Firearms is a component of the OSCE's project titled 'Addressing Security and Safety Risks of Illegal Possession, Misuse and Trafficking of SALW and their Ammunition in BiH.' This initiative underscores the OSCE Mission's role as a key international partner to Bosnia and Herzegovina in implementing its national strategy for the control of small arms and light weapons (SALW). The center will contribute to harmonizing firearms laws across all jurisdictions in Bosnia and Herzegovina with international standards, further strengthening stability both domestically and regionally.