EU Introduces New Firearm Tracking to Combat Trafficking

The European Union has reached a provisional agreement on new firearm trade rules aimed at enhancing transparency and combating illegal trafficking. These regulations, agreed upon by EU lawmakers and the Belgian EU presidency, will introduce an EU-wide electronic licensing system, replacing the current patchwork of national rules.

This approach mirrors similar efforts in the United States, where stringent traceability laws are in place to track firearms from manufacture to sale. The U.S. mandates strict serial number regulations and background checks, aiming to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands.

In the EU, the new rules will also require marking all imported firearms and components to limit the proliferation of unmarked "ghost guns." Both regions are focusing on improving traceability to enhance public safety and reduce the risk of firearms being used in criminal activities.