Council conclusions on the Mission Support Platform

A stronger and more effective Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) remains essential in today's increasingly unpredictable and rapidly changing security environment. Recalling its CSDP conclusions of 18 May 2015, the Council welcomes the efforts to further enhance the effectiveness and responsiveness of civilian CSDP through the establishment of a Mission Support Platform (MSP), aimed at improving the management, rapid deployment and efficient conduct of civilian crisis management missions. The MSP will be established in coordination between the Commission and the European External Action Service to provide support and bring forward greater efficiencies, flexibility and economies of scale to civilian CSDP missions.

The Council emphasises that the establishment of the MSP is a part of an effort to take forward a Shared Services Centre concept. The results that the MSP is expected to deliver shall be presented to the Council through regular reports on the impact of the MSP on improving the effectiveness of CSDP missions and financial benefits for the CFSP budget. The Council will reassess the performance of the MSP and its possible further evolution after two years at the latest.