Main objective of this START project is to improve the fight against illicit trafficking of firearms in the Danube Region through strengthened cooperation between practitioners (law enforcement and judicial authorities) and researchers. International networking among practitioners from criminal law enforcement and judicial authorities as well as researchers and Europol need to be improved. This project will enhance law enforcement activities and security in the Danube Region. Expected Results: The project will establish a platform of stakeholders and will add an assessment to a serious crime threat in the mentioned topic. It will also list a set of suggestions on how to improve the operation between the criminal police, prosecutors and boost research in the Danube Region. Europol will be able to use the gathered information in its reports and initiatives.