BRUSSELS, 29 April 2024 – The Council of the European Union has adopted a decision to extend the mandate of the EU Advisory Mission in support of Security Sector Reform in Iraq (EUAM Iraq) until 30 April 2026. The budget allocation for this period, from 1 May 2024 to 30 April 2026, is almost €66 million.
The strategic objectives of EUAM Iraq’s mandate have been amended to further contribute to the development and strengthening of civilian aspects of security sector reform in Iraq. This decision was made as part of the strategic review of the mission carried out by the Political and Security Committee.
EUAM Iraq was launched in October 2017 in response to a request by the Iraqi government for advice on how to undertake civilian security sector reform. The mission, headquartered in Baghdad with an office in Erbil, initially had a one-year mandate, which has now been extended three times following assessments of Iraqi needs.
The mission’s primary task is to contribute to the development and strengthening of civilian aspects of Iraqi Security Sector Reform. This includes the Iraqi National Security Strategy, associated national strategies, and other national security priorities, through strategic advice and assistance.
EUAM Iraq is mandated to advise and assist the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Ministry of Interior, and other relevant authorities in charge of aspects related to civilian Security Sector Reform. The mission can conduct visits at regional and provincial levels in support of Iraqi efforts to strengthen countrywide coordination as it relates to civilian security sector reform.
This task, supported by several international partners, includes support to Iraqi efforts in areas such as institutional reform, countering organised crime, anti-corruption, the protection of cultural heritage, integrated border management, and counter-terrorism/countering violent extremism.
