Third bilateral assistance measure in support of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Council adopted an assistance measure worth €15 million under the European Peace Facility.

The objective is to strengthen the military and defence capabilities of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The decision complements the support provided so far under the 2021 and 2022 bilateral support package.

The new assistance measure will strengthen the interoperability and operational readiness of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and their potential to contribute to the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) operations and missions and any international coalitions.

Today’s decision illustrates the continued engagement with Bosnia and Herzegovina in the area of security and defence and reflects the country’s full alignment with the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy. In a regional context, the EU and Bosnia and Herzegovina have consistently reaffirmed their commitment to enhance their cooperation in this area, including through Bosnia and Herzegovina’s participation in the Balkan Medical Task Force, a regional task force also supported by the European Peace Facility.

The European Peace Facility will provide the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina with individual protective equipment, CBRN equipment, night vision devices, and cargo vehicles. It will also provide, where needed, related supplies and services, including operational training.

Background and next steps

The European Peace Facility was established in March 2021 for the financing of actions under the common foreign and security policy to prevent conflicts, preserve peace and strengthen international security and stability. In particular, the European Peace Facility allows the EU to finance actions designed to strengthen the capacities of third States and regional and international organisations relating to military and defence matters.