Directive (EU) 2021/555

Directive (EU) 2021/555 is a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Directive 91/477/EEC on control of the acquisition and possession of weapons. It aims to update and strengthen existing EU legislation on firearms to address gaps identified and adapt to technological developments.

The primary objectives of Directive 2021/555 include:

• Improving the traceability of firearms: This involves measures to better track firearms throughout their lifecycle, from manufacture to destruction, aiding law enforcement in investigating illegal firearms trafficking and misuse.

• Strengthening the rules on marking firearms: The directive enhances the requirements for marking firearms to ensure a clear and unique identifier for each weapon, further facilitating traceability.

• Addressing issues related to deactivated firearms: The directive clarifies and strengthens the rules concerning the deactivation of firearms to prevent reactivations and the subsequent illegal use of deactivated weapons.

• Regulation of alarm weapons and converted firearms: The directive addresses the classification and regulation of alarm weapons and firearms that have been converted, modifying their status under the previous directive.

• Exchange of information: Promoting and improving the exchange of information between member states regarding firearms and relevant data to enhance cooperation in combating illegal firearms activities.

Member states are required to transpose the provisions of Directive (EU) 2021/555 into their national laws and regulations within a specified timeframe. This process may involve amending existing national legislation to align with the requirements of the Directive. The Directive is a key component of the EU's efforts to enhance security and combat terrorism by reducing the availability of illegal firearms.