EXCLUSIVE: The Armenian Report Goes on Ride-Along with European Union Mission in Armenia

EXCLUSIVE: On March 28, The Armenian Report had the unique opportunity to accompany the European Union Mission in Armenia (EUMA) on one of their observations. Dr. Markus Ritter, Head of EUMA, led the observation, which took place in Armenia’s Vayots Dzor Province. Ani Khachatryan, correspondent for The Armenian Report, spent the entire day with the EUMA team, starting from their operational base in Yeghegnadzor.

The journey led the group to Khachik and Areni villages of Armenia, providing insight into the mission's activities and the areas they monitor. The Armenian Report captured the experience in a comprehensive video report, available exclusively on our YouTube channel.

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The collaboration between the Republic of Armenia and the European Union began with the signing of an agreement on the Status of the European Union Mission in Armenia (EUMA) on November 20, 2023. The agreement, signed in Yerevan by Vassilis Maragos, Head of EU Delegation to Armenia, and Paruyr Hovhannisyan, Deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia, outlines the legal framework for EUMA's operations.

EUMA, a non-executive, non-armed civilian Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) Mission, focuses on observing and reporting on the security situation along the Armenian side of the international border with Azerbaijan. Additionally, it aims to enhance human security in conflict-affected areas within Armenia and foster confidence-building measures between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Deployed on February 20, 2023, EUMA comprises 103 international staff from EU Member States, including experts and monitors. The mission involves up to 209 personnel, including both international and local staff.

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The establishment of EUMA responds to an official request by Armenian authorities for a full-fledged EU civilian mission on the ground. 

Headed by Dr. Markus Ritter, EUMA benefits from his extensive experience in law enforcement and international cooperation. With a career spanning 27 years with the German Federal Police, Ritter held various leadership positions, both domestically and internationally. His academic background includes studies in law and administrative sciences, culminating in a Ph.D. from the German University of Administrative Sciences Speyer.

The mission’s headquarters, located in Yeghegnadzor, operates alongside six Forward Operating Bases in strategic locations across Armenia. EUMA works in close coordination with Armenian authorities and maintains communication with Azerbaijani counterparts regarding relevant developments.