Civilian expertise for Ukraine: ZIF on a mission visit to the EU Advisory Mission

Germany currently supports the EU Advisory Mission Ukraine (EUAM) with 10 civilian experts and three police officers. Together with representatives from the Federal Foreign Office and the Federal Ministry of the Interior, she was welcomed by EUAM's Head of Mission, Danish diplomat Rolf Holmboe. The aim of the delegation's visit was to exchange views with the mission leadership, mission management, the German Embassy and mission staff on operational and strategic challenges and specific needs.

Staff welfare in conflict areas

The visit is part of the comprehensive staff welfare programme that ZIF provides for its seconded staff in international crisis and conflict contexts. In view of Russia's ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine, personal exchanges are particularly important. The in-depth discussions provided important insights into the current day-to-day work of the mission. German seconded staff isworking at several locations throughout the country, supporting the Ukrainian security forces in reforms and modernisation, but also in gathering evidence of war crimes. 

‘Our experts work under challenging conditions and make a key contribution to strengthening the rule of law in Ukraine. Their efforts deserve the highest recognition and the best possible support,’ recognized Astrid Irrgang during the trip.

Discussions with the Head of Mission and EUAM Ukraine staff provided a deeper understanding of the security situation and the mission's strategic priorities. In addition, direct contact with the seconded experts provided an opportunity to address their concerns and discuss measures for further support. This year, the ZIF has already offered several training and further education courses tailored to the mission, including in the area of stress management.

We would like to thank all our discussion partners for the open dialogue and acknowledge the professionalism and resilience of the seconded experts. The ZIF remains a reliable partner for the implementation of the European Common Security and Defence Policy.