The world around us is changing at fast pace. We face an increasingly complex and deteriorating security environment, with growing tensions and conflicts unravelling around the world, even at the doorstep of Europe. An increasingly uncertain environment demands a stronger EU that fully assumes its responsibilities for crisis management and acts as a global security provider.
Under the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), the EU takes a leading role in peacekeeping operations, conflict prevention and the strengthening of international security. It is an integral part of the EU’s comprehensive approach towards crisis management, drawing on civilian and military assets.
The EU’s military and civilian CSDP missions and operations are the EU’s most visible presence abroad. Almost 5,000 women and men help to promote peace and security where needed, providing stability and building resilience in fragile environments. They are the faces of the EU’s security and defence policy.
Since the first CSDP missions and operations were launched back in 2003, the EU has undertaken 36 overseas operations, using civilian and military missions and operations in several countries in Europe, Africa and Asia. As of today, there are 17 ongoing CSDP missions and operations, 11 of which are civilian, and 6 military.
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In a globalised and fast changing world, the European Union’s security begins abroad. By helping to build stable and peaceful societies, the EU’s missions and operations are working each day for a better world and a safer Europe.
European Union
