The EU wants to close the legal loophole against 3D-printed weapons

BrusselsSecurity has become a top priority for all administrations, including the EU. The European Commission identifies the illegal trafficking of firearms as a growing challenge due to "threats from outside," particularly from criminal organizations, and new technologies that facilitate the manufacture of such weapons. Specifically, the European Commission warns of an increase in the illegal manufacture of firearms using 3D printers and presented a directive on Thursday that aims to close the legal loophole at the EU level against this practice. The European Commission is thus proposing that the European Parliament and member states legislate against the "illicit creation, acquisition, possession, and dissemination of plans for 3D printing firearms." "This represents a new and growing threat to security," the Commission insisted in a statement on Thursday. Brussels reiterates that the illegal arms trade is "a huge threat" and is "completely linked" to terrorism and criminal organizations such as organized crime. According to data from the European Commission itself, more than 620,000 firearms are stolen or lost in the European Union each year and are used to kill more than 1,300 people.

The European Commission wants the trafficking or illegal manufacture of firearms to carry a maximum penalty of at least eight years in prison in all EU member states, the illegal possession of firearms or ammunition at least five years, and the counterfeiting or 3D printing of weapons. Regarding these weapons, the European Commission is proposing for the first time a minimum sentence of two years in prison. More cooperation between member states

Brussels is also proposing greater coordination between member states and the various security forces of the European Union. Among other measures, it wants all countries to share their data on illegal firearms, as well as on recorded attacks, court cases, and seized firearms. This registry will also be shared with Europol's firearms database. Furthermore, the European Commission wants to require each member state to create a body to centralize national data on firearms and their illegal trafficking and manufacture. Brussels also wants these centers to serve as points of contact and coordinate efforts among the other member states of the European bloc. The legislative proposal presented by Brussels this Thursday is pending negotiation and approval in the European Parliament and the Council of the EU, the body that represents the member states. In the case of Spain, the use of 3D printers to create weapons is not expressly penalized, although it is understood to be included in the prohibition on the illegal manufacture, sale, or trafficking of weapons.