On 17 October 2024, Nataliya Apostolova, Head of Mission for EUBAM Rafah, briefed the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Security and Defence (SEDE) on the mission’s security challenges and operational activities. The briefing provided an opportunity to engage with MEPs and discuss EUBAM Rafah’s core mandate, support for the Palestinian Authority’s border management capacity, and cooperation with the General Administration for Borders and Crossings (GABC).
The Head of Mission highlighted EUBAM Rafah's ongoing collaboration with the GABC in Jericho and emphasized the strong partnership between EUBAM Rafah, EUPOL COPPS, and other international partners in supporting the Palestinian security sector. She expressed readiness to continue the mission’s activities and adapt to future developments as the political and security landscape evolves, while also standing ready to fully reactivate the mission’s operations once circumstances permit. The mission received high praise from the Subcommittee for its operational activities in this complex, high-risk environment.
Apostolova was joined by Stefano Tomat, Managing Director of the Civilian Planning and Conduct Capability (CPCC) and Civilian Operations Commander for the EU’s thirteen civilian missions, and Karin Limdal, Head of EUPOL COPPS. The SEDE Subcommittee plays a crucial role in the EU’s security and defence policy by scrutinizing the conduct of CSDP missions like EUBAM Rafah and EUPOL COPPS, which are vital instruments for the EU's engagement in the region.
