On 24–25 June, FACE participated in the European Commission “Reality Check” meeting on the implementation of the Firearms Directive, as part of the broader evaluation exercise to see if the Firearms Directive is still fit for purpose and continues to support the competitiveness of the EU. The meeting brought together firearms manufacturers, traders, sport shooters, hunters and collectors.

FACE attended with eight experts from its membership and emphasised several key priorities. These included the need to digitalise the European Firearms Pass—an important tool for the hunting community, which has, since its adoption in 1991, enabled hunters to travel with their firearms to other Member States under simplified procedures, without the need for individual export authorisations in most cases.

FACE also highlighted the need to improve the flow of information regarding which firearms hunters are allowed to transport when travelling to other Member States. This is particularly important given that Member States may adopt more stringent national measures than those provided under the Firearms Directive.

It was further noted that additional administrative burdens or fees imposed by Member States in relation to the acceptance of the European Firearms Pass are inconsistent with the Firearms Directive.

FACE will continue to participate in the activities planned in the context of the evaluation process and will keep its members informed. FACE considers that the evaluation will demonstrate that the Firearms Directive remains fit for purpose and that no legislative amendments are required. For more information, please see the EC’s press release.