OSCE, World Customs Organization train border officials on chemical precursors

Fourteen frontline border officers, supervisors and managers, customs officials, inspectors and investigators from Central Asia and Afghanistan learned about issues related to chemical precursors that have a potential to be used by terrorists in the first co-operative effort between the World Customs Organization and the OSCE Border Management Staff College in Dushanbe from 19 to 23 November 2012.

As part of the WCO’s Global Shield Programme, three international experts from Canada, Georgia and the United States trained participants in risk assessment, targeting, fraud patterns, and identification of specific precursor chemicals. The border and customs officers learned about and were granted access to the Global Shield Application through which countries can share intelligence and exchange seizure information.

Participants from each country prepared a presentation on the existing legal frameworks regarding precursor chemicals in their country, the authorities involved, and the procedures followed when precursors are detected. The course provided a platform for sharing best practices and knowledge  networks. Participants also discussed how to protect their borders while facilitating cross-border trade.

The partnership established between the College and the World Customs Organization will help officials from OSCE states benefit from the Global Shield Programme.