Bosnian security change

By Cpl Cameron Jamieson

A REVOLUTION in European security has occurred with the transfer of peacekeeping duties in Bosnia-Herzegovina.

The European Union has assumed the main multinational stabilisation role, with the European Force (EUFOR) taking over from NATO’s stabilisation forces.

At a recent ceremony held in Butmir Camp, Sarajevo, British Army Maj-Gen David Leakey assumed command of the 7000-strong force.

NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer said the ceremony was a truly historic occasion.

“It is a watershed in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s development,” he said.

“It is also a proof of the developing cooperation between NATO and the European Union.”

EUFOR marks a substantial development in European security, as it demonstrated that Europe can take control of security events without the direct involvement of the US military.

The transfer of power also reflects the improved security situation in Bosnia-Herzegovina. EUFOR is the third and largest EU military force to have deployed, following deployments to Macedonia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo last year.