European Peace Facility: Council approves €10 million for the Balkan Medical Task Force

The Council adopted an assistance measure under the European Peace Facility (EPF) worth €10 million with the aim of strengthening operational capabilities and readiness of the Balkan Medical Task Force (BMTF). The BMTF pulls together military medical capabilities of regional partners to provide military medical support to international operations. The EPF assistance measure will also strengthen the BMTF's capacity to protect the civilian population in the event of natural or man-made disasters. The BMTF already participates in military exercises to train its personnel and strengthen its operational readiness and interoperability, and is a tangible example of regional cooperation in the defence sphere.

This decision underscores the EU's and Member States' continued engagement with Western Balkan partners on security and defence. By strengthening support from the European Peace Facility for the Task Force and the region, it reflects our shared determination to enhance regional security, stability and resilience. The BMTF and the armed forces of the contributing partners will receive equipment for field hospitals, military medical vehicles and communication and information systems, and where needed related supplies and services, including technical training.

This new action brings the EU's overall support to the BMTF to €16 million under the European Peace Facility.

Background and next steps

The European Peace Facility was established in March 2021 for the financing of actions under the common foreign and security policy to prevent conflicts, preserve peace and strengthen international security and stability. In particular, the EPF allows the EU to finance actions designed to strengthen the capacities of third states and regional and international organisations relating to military and defence matters.