Summary: December 31, 2002: Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the European Union on the launch of the EU Police Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Brussels)
Tomorrow the European Union Police Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina (EUPM) will be launched as EU's first operation under the European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP).
The EUPM follows on from UN's International Police Task Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina (IPTF). Excellent cooperation has ensured a seamless transition from UN to EU responsibility.
EUPM will assist in establishing sustainable policing arrangements under the ownership of Bosnia and Herzegovina and in accordance with best European and international practice. It will work side by side with Bosnia and Herzegovina's police services to monitor and mentor, inspect and advise in all aspects of police work, including the fight against organised crime and corruption.
The EUPM is part of the broader Rule of Law approach in the EU's overall policy to the Western Balkans Region - the Stabilisation and Association Process.
The EU's Planning Team in Sarajevo has worked hard to ensure that EUPM will be fully operational throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina from the very beginning of the mission. The Planning Team has cooperated closely with international organisations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly the Office of the High Representative, OSCE and NATO.
Also police officers from 18 non-EU countries will participate in the EUPM. The EU very much welcomes their participation. It demonstrates the broad international support for - and unity of approach to - peace implementation and support for the establishment of the rule of law in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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