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This briefing paper outlines the operational principles of the Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research (IAI) to guide decisions for the 20th Conference of the Parties. It emphasizes the need to expand the IAI's capacity for science synthesis and integration to better inform policy-making, while maintaining a non-hierarchical, flexible management structure to ensure adaptability and scientific creativity.

This report by the Institute for Security Studies evaluates the effectiveness of South African border control mechanisms in preventing the illegal smuggling of firearms. Through case studies in KwaZulu-Natal and the Northern Cape, and surveys of 52 land border posts, the research identifies systemic failures including severe understaffing, lack of basic infrastructure, and corruption. While the South African Police Service (SAPS) and South African National Defence Force (SANDF) are the primary actors, the report finds that the permeability of the borders remains excessive, with illegal firearms and other contraband moving across the borderline frequently outside of official ports of entry.