EU TO ASSIST IRAQ IN STRENGTHENING THE IRAQI CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM

Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), recently announced the appointment of Mr Stephen White as the Head of the EU Integrated Rule of Law Mission for Iraq (EUJUST - LEX). The appointment follows the endorsement by the EU's Political and Security Committee (PSC) of a proposal by the High Representative Javier Solana.EUJUST LEX follows an invitation by the Iraqi authorities and aims at addressing the urgent needs in the Iraqi criminal justice system through providing training for high and mid level officials in senior management and criminal investigation. It will promote closer collaboration between the different actors across the Iraqi criminal justice system and strengthen the management capacity of senior and high-potential officials primarily from the police, judiciary and penitentiary. The training activities will take place in the EU or in the region. EUJUST LEX will have a Coordinating Office in Brussels and a Liaison Office in Baghdad. Training facilities and trainers will provided by the EU Member States. The operational phase of the Mission will begin no later than 1 July 2005. It is expected to cover an initial period of 12 months. The amount intended to cover the expenditure related to the common costs of the mission will be EUR 10 million (EU budget). In addition, EU Member States will contribute training courses and trainers.