The EU decided in February 2008 to establish an advice and assistance EU mission in support of the Security Sector Reform in Guinea-Bissau (EU SSR Guinea-Bissau). The mission is undertaken in partnership with the Guinea-Bissau authorities. It is conducted under the ESDP (European Security and Defence policy).
Called "EU SSR Guinea-Bissau", the mission provides advice and assistance on reform of the security sector in Guinea Bissau in order to contribute to creating the conditions for implementation of the National Security Sector Reform Strategy. General Esteban Verástegui has been appointed as the Head of Mission for EU SSR Guinea-Bissau.
The mission is part of a coherent EU approach and complementary to the European Development Fund and other European Community activity.
On 17 November 2009, the Council welcomed the work taken forward by EU SSR Guinea-Bissau under difficult circumstances and in a climate of political instability. The Council noted the recent positive developments in Guinea-Bissau, notably the successful presidential elections, and the more promising outlook for progress on SSR reform. The Council noted the expression of commitment from the Government of Guinea-Bissau to reiterate its efforts for Security Sector Reform.
The Council approved in November 2009 an extension of the mission for six months, until 31 May 2010. The main purpose of the extension is to complete the activities foreseen in the current mandate and to prepare the ground for the future implementation of the legal framework by the authorities of Guinea-Bissau. A strategic review on the future of the EU engagement in Guinea-Bissau, taking into account regional aspects, will be carried out by January 2010.
