Abstract

The European Union has been developing an effective policy to deal with the destructive nature of the uncontrolled accumulation of small arms and light weapons, with particular emphasis on the African continent, one of the most affected areas. The Commission and the Council are involved, through various financial instruments, at different levels. If the implementation of actions through the various regional communities seems to be the preferred approach, the 27 also intend to act at national and continental levels. Therefore, research and enhancing the coherence between the initiatives developed as well as between the two institutions are a major target for Brussels.

Key words : European Union, African Union, sub-Saharan Africa, Regional Economic Communities, Small arms and light weapons, EU-Africa Strategy, panafrican project.