ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES FOR ARMS CONTROL: INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS AND UKRAINIAN PRACTICE

Abstract

The article provides a comprehensive analysis of administrative procedures for controlling the circulation of weapons in Ukraine through the prism of international standards, in particular the practice of the European Union. The relevance of the study is due to the growth of threats associated with the illegal circulation of weapons, as well as the need to increase the effectiveness of state control in the field of public safety. The authors emphasize that administrative control is a key preventive mechanism that combines the regulatory and protective functions of the state, ensuring compliance with established rules even before the occurrence of offenses. Particular attention is paid to the characteristics of administrative and legal mechanisms, among which the most important are licensing, the permit system, registration of weapons and supervisory procedures. It is established that the effectiveness of these instruments depends on their transparency, coherence and proper institutional support. International standards that shape modern approaches to controlling the circulation of weapons, in particular requirements for licensing, accounting, marking and interstate cooperation, are also analyzed. The article provides a comparative analysis of Ukrainian and European practice. It was found that Ukraine has an extensive regulatory framework, but it is characterized by fragmentation and an insufficient level of digitalization. Unlike the EU, where electronic registers and integrated accounting systems are widely used, the Ukrainian system needs modernization. The problems of applying administrative sanctions and proving offenses are separately considered. Summarizing the results, the authors justify the need to improve legislation, introduce digital technologies, increase the transparency of procedures and harmonize with European standards. This will contribute to increasing the efficiency of control and strengthening public safety.