ACCC is a new format agreed in the May 2023 Civilian CSDP Compact as a platform for Member States to exchange on civilian capability development, coordinate efforts and jointly address shortfalls. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance EU civilian responses to conflicts and crises and better prepare for future challenges.

The EU faces a multitude of threats in its immediate neighbourhood and beyond. The demand for civilian CSDP missions to reinforce the police, rule of law and civil administration in fragile and conflict settings continues to grow. Last year, the EU launched two new missions (in Armenia and Moldova), as well as a new EU Security and Defence Initiative in support of Gulf of Guinea countries.

Background

The new Annual Civilian Capabilities Conference seeks to consolidate a high level of ambition in strengthening joint and coordinated capability development to reinforce the civilian Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). This is needed in light of the deteriorating security environment, and in line with the EU’s Strategic Compass for Security and Defence (March 2022) and the new Civilian CSDP Compact (May 2023). The process seeks to develop solutions and initiatives to close the gaps in civilian capabilities, particularly in human resources management and secondments to civilian CSDP missions.

The European Union currently deploys 14 civilian missions under the framework of the CSDP. They work in crises and conflict areas to preserve peace, promote stability and build resilience by strengthening the rule of law, the police and the civil administration of partner countries. Civilian experts advise and train, upon invitation of the host countries, local partners in Africa, the Middle East, Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans. More than 2,000 staff work under the EU flag in the field. The mandates of the civilian CSDP missions are agreed unanimously by EU Member States.