According to the agency, the government of Kyrgyzstan, with the support of the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), is participating in the global SALIENT initiative (Saving Lives Entity), aimed at creating a modern system for managing civilian firearms.
Previously, before the launch of the SALIENT project, the registration of firearms was conducted manually at the regional level. This led to the use of paper logs and fragmented databases, making it difficult to share information between various agencies and, consequently, reducing the effectiveness of control.
With the launch of the SALIENT project in 2024, the first unified electronic weapons registry was created. This new digital system ensures the integration of all government bodies on a secure platform, allowing for online data verification, permit renewals, and the registration of weapon transfers.
Additionally, the project has contributed to strengthening national legislation: the first National Action Plan on Small Arms and Light Weapons was developed, and an inter-agency coordination group was established, including 14 government institutions. Licensing departments now use modern software and equipment, improving the registration and monitoring process.
The measures taken in Kyrgyzstan have significantly increased the level of transparency and efficiency in inter-agency interaction, bringing the country's practices closer to international standards for firearms management.
It is also worth noting that Kyrgyzstan has initiated the establishment of March 5 as the International Day for Awareness of Disarmament and Non-Proliferation, which was approved by the UN General Assembly.
“Small arms and light weapons remain one of the main sources of instability and violence worldwide. Their uncontrolled proliferation undermines social development, exacerbates conflicts, and reduces trust in state institutions,” emphasizes UN News.
