The Misuse of Firearms in Domestic Violence in the Western Balkans: Key Trends and Main Concerns
The Misuse of Firearms in Domestic Violence in the Western Balkans: Key Trends and Main Concerns

Contributor(s): Dragan Božanić (Editor)
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Sociology, Security and defense, Criminology
Published by: The South Eastern and Eastern Europe Clearinghouse for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SEESAC)
Keywords: firearms misuse; domestic violence; gender-based risks; Western Balkans; institutional response; SALW control; victim safety
Summary/Abstract: In the Western Balkans, longstanding efforts have focused on documenting the impact of firearms misuse in domestic violence and enhancing prevention measures. Through extensive research and collaboration with regional institutions, SEESAC has provided pioneering analyses on the role of firearms in domestic violence, supported policy-making and legislative improvements, and developed practical tools and guidelines to strengthen prevention and response efforts. Still, the misuse of firearms in domestic violence continues to have an adverse effect on women’s and men’s safety in the Western Balkans and poses a specific challenge in the context of small arms and light weapons (SALW) control. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the impact of firearms in domestic violence and extensively documents its gender-based nature. In doing so, it aims to increase awareness about the role of firearms in domestic violence and the specific risks they present in such a context. While it primarily intends to support policymakers and law enforcement agencies in addressing identified challenges and enhancing the safety and well-being of women and men in the Western Balkans, the analysis is also intended for international and regional organisations, civil society groups, researchers, and other stakeholders in the region.

• Details
• Contents