On 18th March 2025, RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation officially launched the ‘’Agreement on Sub-Regional Arms Control (Dayton Article IV) Orientation Course’’, a cornerstone initiative for arms control education. Taking place from 17 to 21 March 2025, the Course brings together participants to educate them about the successful performance of arms control inspections, enhance transparency, build trust, and promote cooperation in accordance with the Agreement on Sub-Regional Arms Control. To date RACVIAC has conducted 28 courses on the Subregional Arms Control Agreement and this year’s edition, which coincides with RACVIAC 25th anniversary celebration, is being attended by more than 20 participants from 10 different countries, including representatives from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Benelux Arms Control Agency (BACA), Croatia, DTRA, France, Germany, Montenegro, Romania, Spain, Serbia, South Korea, and Türkiye. In addition, more than 10 lecturers and speakers are contributing with their expertise, representing a wide range of organizations involved in arms control and security cooperation.
The Course is organized annually by RACVIAC since 2001, with this year’s event being hosted by the Republic of Croatia and supported by both the Republic of Austria and the Republic of Croatia. The event takes place at RACVIAC headquarters in Rakitje for the theoretical sessions, with practical exercises at military barracks in Gospić and Knin.
The Course aims to instruct military officers and non-commissioned officers on how to successfully perform their duties as arms control inspectors and escort team members under the Agreement on Sub-Regional Arms Control, a key component of the Dayton Peace Accords (General Framework Agreement for Peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Annex I-B, Article IV). RACVIAC, celebrating 25 years of its work and commitment to arms control this year, has conducted 28 courses on the Subregional Arms Control Agreement, training approximately 600 inspectors.
The Course was opened by RACVIAC Director, H.E. Ambassador Constantin Mihail-Grigorie, who welcomed participants and explained that the Course is crucial for ensuring security and stability because it helps build mutual trust, transparency, and a shared understanding of the Agreement. He also expressed deep gratitude for financial contributions of Austria and Croatia and thanked the verification centers from the Signatory countries for their continued support and expertise.
Ambassador Grigorie reflected on the global profile of participants in the event, highlighting the significance of Arms Control Agreements and verification mechanisms.
He emphasized that constructive dialogue, close cooperation, and a common approach to security issues are crucial for achieving peace and stability both regionally and globally. RACVIAC Director also reaffirmed RACVIAC commitment to comprehensive and cooperative security, expressing belief that this course would serve as an excellent tool to promote openness and transparency among nations. He wished all participants a fruitful and productive week at RACVIAC.
Ms. Svjetlana Šimičić, Head of the Arms Control Department at the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Croatia, highlighted Croatia’s long-standing commitment to the Agreement on Sub-Regional Arms Control. She acknowledged the vital role of RACVIAC, the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre, and Contact Group countries in supporting its implementation over the past three decades. Looking ahead to the 30th anniversary of the Agreement in 2026, Ms. Šimičić reaffirmed Croatia’s dedication to its modernization and continued success as a key instrument for security and stability in the region.
