Summary

This report provides a brief update on the recent trends related to mercenaries and private military and security companies (PMSCs). The report notes that the activities of private military and security companies have continued to evolve, with contractors involved worldwide in an expanding range of activities. Such activities include the continued expansion of the PMSC industry in countries such as Afghanistan and Iraq, maritime security, and the use of PMSCs by the United Nations. The report also reviews efforts made by States to regulate PMSCs and introduces its conclusions related to the first phase of the national legislation survey.

The report also highlights the various gaps that remain regarding the transparency and accountability of private military and security companies. In this context, the Working Group reiterates its position on the need for an international regulatory framework to monitor PMSCs activities.