Brussels, 15/05/2015 (Agence Europe) - On 13 May, speaking through the body of the Political and Security Committee (COPS), the Council of the EU decided to reinforce the civilian mission EUCAP Sahel Niger as part of the actions of the European Union to prevent irregular migration (see EUROPE 11314).
The EU will offer the Nigerien authorities support in preventing irregular immigration and combatting associated crimes. This would include advice on a related strategy and training to the Nigerien security services. EUCAP Sahel Niger would also have an outpost in Agadez, a major trafficking hub on the road to Libya. According to the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Commission Vice-President Federica Mogherini, 90% of migrants from Western Africa travel through Niger to reach Libya.
EUCAP Sahel Niger already provides advice and training to support the Nigerien authorities in strengthening their capacities to combat terrorism and organised crime. Around 50 international experts from 12 EU member states currently work in the mission, which is based in Niamey, the capital of Niger, headed by. Filip de Ceuninck from Belgium.
EUCAP is embedded in the EU regional strategy for security and development in the Sahel. (Camille-Cerise Gessant)