Armenia: EU launches a CSDP civilian mission to contribute to stability in border areas

27.02.2023 Press and information team of EUMA

On 20th February the EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA) conducted its first patrol under the watchful eye of Civilian Operations Commander and MD CPCC Stefano Tomat and Head of Mission Markus Ritter, following a same day Decision by the Council to launch the mission.

EUMA will contribute to human security, build confidence on the ground and support EU efforts in the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan

The mission reached Initial Operating Capability - allowing it to begin operations - less than a month after the Council Decision establishing the mission. Through its deployment on the Armenian side of the Armenia-Azerbaijan border, it aims to contribute to stability in the border areas of Armenia, build confidence and human security in conflict affected areas, and ensure an environment conducive to the normalisation efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan supported by the EU.

The exclusively civilian staff of the EUMA will number approximately 100 in total, including around 50 unarmed observers.

The mission’s operational headquarters will be in Yeghegnadzor, in the Vayots Dzor province of Armenia.

In a letter to the High Representative received on 27 December 2022, the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Armenia invited the EU to deploy a civilian CSDP mission to Armenia.