The pillar of security and stability has been an integral part of the Special Partnership between the European Union and Cabo Verde since its establishment in 2007. Cabo Verde's geostrategic location, its exposure to international threats and illicit trafficking are widely recognised. These conditions form the basis for the signing of several existing agreements between the country and partners such as the United States, Brazil, China, Portugal, Spain, France and Luxembourg on security matters. As an archipelago country where territorial waters represent more than 98% of the total territory, maritime security is one of the main priorities. There is a strong partnership between the European Union and Cabo Verde in the field of security.

In view of new threats and the intensification of transnational organised crime, it is necessary to strengthen maritime security to prevent illegal activities, within the framework of cooperative security. 

Maritime Security

On 8 July 2025, the Council of the European Union adopted an assistance measure under the European Peace Facility for the Armed Forces of Cabo Verde. This first assistance measure is part of the Special Partnership between the European Union and Cabo Verde, has a budget of €12 million and will be implemented over a period of two years. 

The aim is to strengthen the Armed Forces' capacity to protect the country's sovereignty in the waters under its jurisdiction and to improve its participation in regional maritime security within the framework of the Yaoundé Architecture. In addition, it increases Cabo Verde's participation in European Union initiatives in the field of security and defence, such as the Coordinated Maritime Presences in the Gulf of Guinea and operations to combat transnational organised crime in cooperation with the navies of EU Member States.

The Cabo Verde Armed Forces will receive additional equipment and services for patrolling and surveillance of the waters under the country's jurisdiction, including the delivery of an ocean patrol vessel, as well as training activities.

The European Peace Facility was created in 2021 with the aim of financing actions under the EU's common foreign and security policy, with a view to preventing conflicts, preserving peace and strengthening international security and stability. 

The Facility enables the financing of actions aimed at strengthening the capacities of partner countries and regional and international organisations in the areas of security and defence.

In addition to maritime security, there are other security programmes and projects supported by the European Union that benefit Cabo Verde. 

See the list of programmes and projects here

European Union, 2025