Europeans in the Central African Republic soon? (Shift)
(BRUSSELS2 exclusive) The European Council should lead to a more concrete initiative in terms of CSDP operations. According to our information, the High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs could, in fact, be responsible for presenting options " for a civilian mission or a military operation in the Central African Republic.
All civil and military CSDP options must be studied
The last draft conclusions circulated, seen by B2, mentioned the " will (the 28) to examine the use of the appropriate instruments to contribute to the common efforts in progress”. That is to say those led on the one hand by France - Operation Sangaris - and by Africans from MISCA. It's about to stabilize the country, including the common security and defense policy (CSDP), in its two military and civilian dimensions ". Several Member States are, in fact, ready to support such an operation if it takes place under the European banner.
Belgium and Visegrad
Belgian Prime Minister Di Rupo was the most explicit on the subject, indicating that the Belgian effort (2 planes) was all for the moment " and certainly not bilaterally”. According to our information, the Visegrad countries (Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia), could also consider, in this context, making a bundled offer.
Comments : If confirmed, this decision would have three advantages:
- 1° to offer a European response that is a little more muscular than hitherto. Response all the more necessary as the news from the field that arrives shows a situation that is sordid to say the least. If Europe remained silent, it would be a negative sign.
- 2° To allow the French government - sometimes criticized at the national level - the opportunity to say that they are not "all alone".
- 3° Provide an opportunity for broader debate on the financing costs of CSDP operations. The French idea of a "Fund" having been "reframed" in a European perspective.
On the other hand, we must beware of all enthusiasm. It will probably take a few months before this becomes a reality, the time to prepare a mission (a new resolution of the UN Security Council could be necessary). And the European effort could not automatically have combat troops on site (a EUFOR-type mission) but rather what the European Union has now made a specialty of: the training and/or restructuring of African armies or security forces (EUTM or SSR mission type).
(Maj 20.12 midnight) This information - given at the entrance to the Summit - was confirmed on reading the final conclusions. Has been added: an appointment given to the Council of Foreign Ministers, on January 20, for "decision". This reinforces the notion of urgency of the decision.
