European Union Adopts Joint Action on Police Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina

On March 11, 2002, the European Union’s Council adopted a joint action on the creation of the European Union Police Mission (EUPM) in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Prior to the joint action, February 18, 2002, the Council had announced on February 18, 2002 that the EU would be ready to supplement the United Nations International Police Task Force (IPTF). In Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) by January 1, 2003. The Council found that the EU should continue to coordinate with the UN and to consult with relevant organizations, particularly NATO and OSCE. On March 4, 2002, the governments of Bosnia and Herzegovina invited the EU to assume responsibility for the assistance to the UN police mission. The EU will need to conclude an agreement to this end with the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina. A Planning Team must be established to prepare the EUPM.