The European External Action Service & Civilian CSDP

As an important aspect of the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy, and part of the EU’s broader foreign policy toolbox, coordination of civilian CSDP sits within the European External Action Service (EEAS) – the European Union’s diplomatic service.

Within the European External Action Service there are three directorates working on civilian CSDP: Security and Defence Policy; Peace, Partnerships and Crisis Management; and the Civilian Operations Headquarters. Scroll down to find out what these directorates work on and how they contribute to civilian CSDP.

Structures and Responsibilities

Security and Defence Policy (SECDEFPOL)

The Security and Defence Policy Directorate (SECDEFPOL) coordinates the EEAS’s efforts to respond to external security threats. It works to develop the tools and policies needed to fully realise the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy. Topics covered include defence, disarmament, counter-terrorism, and hybrid and cyber threats.

With regards to civilian CSDP, SECDEFPOL.1 (Strategy, Coordination and Policy) is the responsible division.

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Peace, Partnership and Crisis Management (PCM)

The Peace, Partnerships and Crisis Management Directorate (PCM) coordinates the EU's response to conflict and crises throughout all stages of the conflict cycle. It is responsible for the EEAS's contribution to the EU Integrated Approach to External Conflicts and Crises, as well as managing relationships with partners in the field of peace, security and defence.

Within the directorate it is PCM.3 (Strategic Planning for Crisis Management) that plays a key role in civilian CSDP. This division is responsible for the planning, design, and review of all civilian CSDP missions.

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Civilian Operations Headquarters (CivOpsHQ)

The Civilian Operations Headquarters (CivOpsHQ) was established in March 2025 following a decision taken by Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and European Commission Vice-President, to establish a permanent operational hub to support civilian CSDP missions.

Prior to the creation of CivOpsHQ, the Civilian Planning and Conduct Capability Directorate acted as the operational headquarters of all civilian missions.

CivOpsHQ is led by the Civilian Operations Commander, currently Mr. Stefano Tomat, and is responsible for the operational planning and conduct of all civilian CSDP missions. The headquarters consists of five different divisions: 

  • CivOpsHQ.1 – Horizontal topics and concepts

  • CivOpsHQ.2 – Operations

  • CivOpsHQ.3 – Personnel

  • CivOpsHQ.4 – Support

  • CivOpsHQ.5 – Security and health

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