Finland’s participation in the UN crisis management operation in Chad and the Central African Republic discussed at the Government session

Press release 63/2009
26 February, 2009

In its plenary session the Government has today, 26 February, discussed Finland’s participation in the crisis management operation in Chad and the Central African Republic. The UN Security Council has decided to expand its MINURCAT civilian mission by adding a military component as of 15 March. Finland is preparing to participate in the mission and plans to deploy a detachment of about 80 soldiers.

At present, military crisis management in the area is the responsibility of the European Union, whose EUFOR mission was launched in January 2008. The EU presence in the area was meant to be short in duration, and the mandate of the EU mission will end as planned on 15 March 2009. Finland has participated in the EU mission by deploying about 60 military personnel.

In connection with the transfer of responsibility, the Finnish detachment will move from Abéché to the southern part of the Goz Beida operational area, to work together with the Irish battalion. The Finnish company’s tasks will include patrolling, the protection of civilians, crime prevention, contacts with aid organisations and the creation of a safe operational environment. Two refugee camps and 18 camps for internal refugees are located within the battalion’s area.

The MINURCAT mission aims for a strength of 5,200 military personnel, 25 military liaison officers and 300 police officers as well as the necessary number of civilian experts.

Additional information: Timo Kantola, Head of the Unit for Security Policy and Crisis Management, tel. +358 9 1605 5480