Feasibility study on reducing the security risks posed by the criminal misuse of pyrotechnics : final report

This feasibility study investigates the extent of the threat posed by the criminal misuse of pyrotechnic articles across Europe. It responds to concerns about illicit manufacturing, diversion to criminal channels, and misuse of pyrotechnic articles in criminal activities, aiming to provide the European Commission with an updated and comprehensive picture of the pyrotechnic threat landscape. Adopting a phenomenon-based approach, the study examines pyrotechnic incidents both in isolation and as part of broader trends, exploring the socio-economic, legal, and criminal dynamics that contribute to their misuse. The primary objective is to provide the European Commission with a picture of the pyrotechnic threat landscape. This study examined the criminal misuse of pyrotechnic articles across Member States, identifying key vulnerabilities, cross-border dynamics and enforcement challenges. Overall, the evolving tactics of criminal actors highlight the need for a more integrated approach across Member States. The results of the study will support the European Commission in informing EU-level future responses.