Welcome aboard: EUCAP Somalia’s new Deputy Head of Mission

09.11.2025 EUCAP Somalia - Press and information team

Mogadishu, Somalia: Kati Bailey, seconded by CMC Finland started her new role as Deputy Head of Mission at EUCAP Somalia on 2 November 2025. She holds a Master's degree in Political Science and a Specialist Vocational Qualification in Leadership and Business Management. Her professional career is deeply rooted in the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy and Finnish national defence, holding multiple Senior Specialist roles within the Ministry of Defence. She has extensive field experience in crisis management missions, notably serving as the Deputy Head of Mission, amongst other roles, for EUBAM Libya and as a Monitor with EUMM Georgia. Find out more about Kati’s professional journey and what she looks forward to during her time in Somalia.

Welcome to the Mission! Could you share a little bit about your background and professional journey so far? What interested you in working for EUCAP Somalia?

Firstly, I would like to thank EUCAP colleagues for the warm welcome to the Mission. My background and most of my professional experiences are related to the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), combining experiences from strategic level to operational field work. I have primarily focused on defence policy matters and worked in several crisis management missions, latest in EUBAM Libya. This combination has deepened my knowledge on CSDP and broader EU efforts towards international peace and security. Continuing my professional journey as a Deputy Head of Mission in EUCAP Somalia is an opportunity to contribute to the Mission’s work in supporting and assisting Somalia to enhance its law enforcement and maritime security capacities.

What are your focus areas as you begin your new role?

I have started my work in the Mission and continue to integrate myself to the EUCAP team. I am looking forward to introducing myself to our Somali counterparts, EU representatives and international community and establishing solid working relationships. I also plan to visit our Field Offices in Puntland and Somaliland, and our Back-Office in Nairobi in the near future. Regarding the lessons learned from my previous positions, I would highlight as important elements in the mandate implementation understanding the local context, continuous dialogue with key counterparts and beneficiaries and close coordination and cooperation with EU family and international partners.

Beyond daily duties, what are you most looking forward to discovering or experiencing during your time in Somalia?

I am looking forward to experiences that are broadening and enriching my understanding on Somalia and the Horn of Africa. I hope to be able to discover as much as possible the culture and traditions through encounters and exchanges with Somalis.

A warm welcome again to Kati!

Welcome aboard: EUCAP Somalia’s new Deputy Head of Mission

MORE STORIES