Forum for Security Co-operation

Tajikistan saw the first successfully completed programme to address small arms and light weapons (SALW) and conventional ammunition stockpiles under a new assistance mechanism developed by the FSC. Under the programme, surplus SALW and ammunition stored in dangerous conditions were destroyed, the security of SALW and ammunition stockpiles was enhanced, and personnel were trained on effective stockpile management and security.

After the initial request for assistance was submitted in July 2004, the OSCE conducted technical and assessment visits from August to November 2004. A number of storage sites in Dushanbe were visited. A detailed project plan was then developed, paving the way to a memorandum of understanding with the Government of Tajikistan.

Phase I of the programme (August 2005 to June 2006) addressed SALW and ammunition in the Dushanbe area with a budget of approximately 870,000 euros. The project was completed in November 2006, in time and within budget.

Tajikistan has since requested to expand the programme to other areas of the country where assistance in destroying SALW and ammunition as well as upgrading weapons storage sites is needed. Following an OSCE assessment visit, a project proposal was developed and implementation started.