BRUSSELS, June 25, 2024 — The EU Council has decided to extend the mandates of the European Union Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point (EUBAM Rafah) and the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS) until June 30, 2025.
EUBAM Rafah, which was established in November 2005 following the Israeli disengagement from Gaza, remains in a stand-by mode. The mission, currently led by Ms. Nataliya Apostolova, continues to provide technical assistance and advice on integrated border management to the Palestinian General Administration for Borders and Crossings based in Jericho. The mission also supports projects related to trade facilitation and the processing of biometric passports.
While EUBAM Rafah’s mandate includes providing a third-party presence at the Rafah Crossing Point between the Gaza Strip and Egypt, this aspect has been on hold since Hamas took over Gaza in 2007. Nonetheless, the mission remains prepared to redeploy to the crossing point once conditions allow for a safe and effective operation.
Ms. Apostolova emphasized the mission’s readiness: “EUBAM Rafah is committed to enhancing Palestinian border management capabilities and stands ready to resume full operations at the Rafah Crossing Point when the situation permits.”
EUPOL COPPS, launched in January 2006 and headed by Ms. Karin Limdal, focuses on supporting the Palestinian Civil Police and broader justice institutions. The mission contributes to Palestinian security and justice sector reforms by providing assistance in policing and wider criminal justice arrangements.
Ms. Limdal highlighted the mission’s impact: “EUPOL COPPS plays a crucial role in strengthening the Palestinian security and justice sectors, fostering reforms that are vital for peace and stability in the region.”
The decision to extend these missions underscores the EU’s dedication to promoting peace and stability in the region. The European Council, in its conclusions on March 21-22, 2024, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to a lasting peace based on a two-state solution, emphasizing the equal rights of Palestinians and Israelis to live in safety, dignity, and peace.
The Council’s statement noted the importance of these missions in supporting Palestinian state-building efforts: “The EUPOL COPPS and EUBAM Rafah missions are instrumental in advancing Palestinian institutional development and fostering conditions conducive to peace.”
With the mandates extended, both missions will continue their efforts to support Palestinian state-building, enhance border management, and strengthen security and justice institutions, contributing to the broader goal of achieving a lasting and sustainable peace in the region.
