The European Union Advisory Mission in Iraq (EUAM Iraq) was launched in October 2017 in response to a request by the Iraqi government for advice on how to undertake civilian security sector reform (SSR).

The Mission had an initial mandate of one year (until 17 October 2018), which based on an assessment of Iraqi needs and progress made was extended until April 2020.

On 7 April, 2020, the EU Council extended the mandate of the Mission until 30 April 2022 following the assessment of Iraqi needs. EUAM Iraq is based in Baghdad, and the mission’s overarching task is to support coherent implementation of the civilian related aspects of the Iraqi National Security Strategy and the security sector reform.

This process, supported by several international partners, involves support to institutional reform and efforts to help counter terrorism (including countering violent extremism) and organised crime, with specific reference to border management, financial crime in particular corruption, money laundering and trafficking of cultural heritage goods.

EUAM Iraq is mandated to advise officials of the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Ministry of Interior who are responsible for driving the reform. The mission also regularly conducst visits at regional and provincial levels in support of Iraqi efforts to strengthen countrywide coordination as it relates to civilian security sector reform.

The Mission is based in Baghdad with Mr. Christoph Buik from Germany as the Head of Mission.

Want to get the latest news on the Mission’s work? Please visit the news section.

Have a media enquiry? Please get in touch with our Press and Public Information Office on info@euam-iraq.eu or +964 780 958 3672.