An official website of the European Union. See all European Institutions
Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP)
EU Member states have committed themselves to a Common Foreign Security Policy for the European Union.
With 60% of the oceans relying outside nations jurisdiction, ensuring good governance at sea and securing the maritime domain becomes a challenge for every international actor. With a revised Action Plan and a Maritime Security Strategy under the umbrella of the Global Strategy, the EU has been working closely with international partners towards a safer maritime environment and a sustainable use of its resources.
For the past 10 years the EU has successfully deployed a CSDP military naval operation to fight piracy off the coast of Somalia. Today the threat of piracy has been minimised. At the same time the operation was tasked with monitoring fishing activity and reporting any illegal activity. Improved security conditions now allow communities to engage in fishing activities supported by EU and UN missions and initiatives.
Prevention is better than cure. This basic principle stands behind many of the EU activities. A pertinent example is the EU's civilian monitoring mission in Georgia (EUMM). It was deployed immediately following the war between Russia and Georgia in 2008. EUMM has helped since then to prevent new hostilities and enabled the affected population to resume a normal life free from fear.
The 1st October marks 10 years since the European Union Monitoring Mission (EUMM) was deployed to Georgia. For a decade, the EUMM has contributed to enhanced security and stability, conducting over 65,000 patrols on the ground. Over 1,700 EU nationals have served in the Mission over the years. That these staff have come from all 28 EU Member States is the strongest possible testament to the commitment of the entire European Union to this Mission. The Mission focuses on enhancing stability, monitoring the situation and rights of the people most affected by the conflict, building confidence and reporting factually.
In the face of rising instability and violent conflict, EU and UN will further reinforce their cooperation. They have identified a new set of priorities for the next three years on peace operations and crisis management.
