Althea underpins stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina
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Photo: EUFOR ALTHEA Operation
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On 18 May 2009, EU foreign affairs and defence ministers welcomed the continued positive contribution of the EU military operation Althea to stability and security in Bosnia and Herzegovina. They stated that, despite the challenging political environment, the country's security situation has remained stable.
The main task of the 2200-strong EU force (Eufor) is to ensure compliance with the 1995 Dayton-Paris peace agreement. It also supports the international community's High Representative Valentin Inzko, the highest political authority in the country. This Austrian diplomat is also the EU Special Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
In addition, Eufor troops assist local authorities in a number of tasks, such as mine clearance and control of lower airspace.
It is planned that, in the future, Althea will be developed into a capacity-building and training operation. Preparations are under way and reviewed regularly. A decision on this transformation can be taken once the necessary conditions have been met.
The name of the operation, Althea, refers to the goddess of healing in Greek mythology.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a potential candidate for EU membership and receives
pre-accession aid from the EU.
More information:
Council conclusions on European Security and Defence Policy(pdf)
Council webcast of press conference
EU operations - Eufor Althea
Eufor Althea website
Office of the High Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina
EU relations with Bosnia and Herzegovina