‘…missions are a unique instrument to address specific sectors in the crisis and conflict situations. What unites all these missions is the same broader objective to generate stability through concrete, pragmatic solutions in selected fields and help peace and stability.’ – EUPOL COPPS Head of Mission Nataliya Apostolova on the occasion of EUPOL COPPS’ commemoration of the 15^th Anniversary of CPCC, held on the 31 May in Ramallah. Aside from celebrating 15 years of CPCC, Head of Mission reflected upon the achievements of the current mandate, notably but not limited to the recent hosting of the first PCP Women’s Conference last month; whilst enthusiastically looking ahead to the Mission’s new mandate, which will commence on the 1 July, continuing on our journey side by side with our Palestinian counterparts and international partners.

Again, we are turning one page in our shared history which we’ve walked side-by-side for already sixteen years. One mandate ends soon in the end of June, the new one starts on the 1 of July and we are all excited to see what tomorrow will bring to us.

Today is time to appreciate our teamwork, take stock of the achieved results. It is a rare opportunity to work together as experts from different background- lawyers, prosecutors, police, media, budget, human resources, reporting and security officials.

Looking back at the past year I am gratified by our achievements. The most recent concrete outcome was demonstrated two weeks ago, when the PCP in partnership with EUPOL COPPS hosted the first Palestinian Police Women Conference. This historic event was attended by 224 women police officers, as well as 50 affiliates from other Palestinian security services. The female police officers gave powerful testimonies of their experiences while they were also taking first steps in designing the Palestinian female police network. The conference received lots of visibility in the media and gave us all new inspiration. 

Last week, our Headquarters in Brussels hosted a conference to commemorate the 15 years of CPCC (European Union Civilian Planning and Conduct Capability). This high level event gathered all “fathers” of the CPCC, present Heads of CSDP missions, HRVP Borrell and many dignities to discuss the shaping of Civilian CSD Policy for the future. Under CPCC, the European Union has launched 23 civilian crisis management missions. At the moment, besides our mission, there are ten other active missions in three continents with ambitious mandates, operating often in challenging environment.

These missions are a unique instrument to address some specific sectors in the crisis and conflict situations. What unites all these missions is the same broader objective to generate stability through concrete, pragmatic solutions in selected fields and help peace and stability.

For me, the high level event in Brussels would not be complete if we, here in Ramallah, could not continue that remarkable celebration with colleagues and counterparts.

During the past months, we have sometimes climbed hills, experienced frustration and success, felt both sorrow and happiness.

I wish we will keep our hearts and minds open to one another, as there is still much more we can attain and learn from each other.

I believe, we can find strength and motivation in our cooperation. As colleagues and friends, we can contribute to the change and make a difference.