Colonel Jean-Louis NURENBERG

Following an official request by the DRC government, the EU decided to establish an EU advisory and assistance mission for security reform in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) ("EUSEC RD CONGO"). The mission was launched on 8 June 2005 and in September 2012 its mandate has been extended until 30 September 2013.

EUSEC RD Congo provides advice and assistance on defence reform in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) with the aim of assisting the Congolese authorities in setting up a defence apparatus capable of guaranteeing the security of the Congolese people, while respecting democratic standards, human rights and the rule of law, as well as the principles of good governance and transparency.

Since 1 October 2012 Colonel Jean-Louis Nurenberg is the Head of Mission. He succeeds General António Martins, General Jean-Paul Michel and General Michel-Pierre Joana.

The EUSEC RD Congo mission reflects the EU's ongoing commitment to the Congolese people in terms of reforming their army. In line with its seventh mandate (1 October 2012 – 30 September 2013), EUSEC RD Congo is helping to pave the way for implementation of the guidelines adopted in the plan for FARDC reform and for the implementation of the Defence Law ("La loi organique portant organisation et fonctionnement des Forces armées de la RDC".)

The key activities of this mandate are to continue with its support at strategic level of the Congolese Defence Ministry and general military staff, including support to the General Inspectorate; to modernise and consolidate administration and management of  human recourses; and to revive the training system through support to the General Command on Military Schools and development of a comprehensive training policy. Furthermore the mission assists the Congolese with the the development of logistical capabilities and carries out activities to combat impunity with regard to human rights violations, including sexual violence.

Restoration of governance in general and defence reform in particular remains central in creating lasting conditions for stability in the DRC.

To contribute towards that goal, EUSEC cooperates closely with EUPOL RD Congo and the Delegation of the EU in DRC, coordinates its work with the activities financed by the European Commission and the Member States, and works together with the UN and other relevant national and international actors.