EU Police Mission in Afghanistan: new head of Mission appointed

10/2/2015 EU source: European Union Ref: EU15-026EN
 

Summary: 10 February 2015, Brussels – Pia Stjernvall has been appointed as Head of the EU Police Mission in Afghanistan (EUPOL Afghanistan). Ms. Stjernvall, from Finland, takes up her duties on 16 February 2015, having been Deputy Head of Mission since June 2014.

EUPOL Afghanistan, a civilian mission within the Common Security and Defence Policy, was established in 2007. On 17 December 2014, the Council extended the mandate of EUPOL Afghanistan until 31 December 2016. The mission is part of the EU's long-term commitment and contributes to the EU's overall political and strategic objectives in Afghanistan.

EUPOL Afghanistan plays a crucial part in the overall EU and international effort to support the development of the country. The mission works in partnership with the Afghan government to strengthen its civilian police force operating under an improved rule of law framework and in respect of human rights.

EUPOL Afghanistan engages in three main areas:

• institutional reform of the Ministry of Interior,
• professionalisation of the Afghan National Police and
• developing justice-police linkages,

with a strong emphasis on mainstreaming anti-corruption, human rights and gender throughout all its actions.

The mission's support is delivered by its dedicated police and rule of law experts from EU member states, through advising in relevant Afghan institutions, i.e. Ministry of Interior, Afghan National Police, Ministry of Justice and the Attorney General's office.

The decision to appoint Ms Stjernvall was taken by the Council's Political and Security Committee.

• Fact sheet EUPOL Afghanistan, January 2015