The Council established on 10 February 2014 an EU military operation to contribute to a secure environment in the Central African Republic, as authorised by the UN Security Council in resolution 2134 (2014). This decision created the legal basis for the operation entitled EUFOR RCA and was another step towards its rapid deployment.

The mission ended its mandate and has been closed on the 15 March 2015.

EUFOR RCA provided temporary support in achieving a safe and secure environment in the Bangui area, with a view to handing over to African partners. The force contributed to international efforts to protect the populations most at risk, creating the conditions for providing humanitarian aid.

The Former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, Catherine Ashton, said: "We have reacted swiftly to the serious crisis in the Central African Republic. We are using all the tools at our disposal, from humanitarian assistance to political support for the transition, to our long-term development cooperation. But the absolute priority is to protect the civilian population from any further violence, to ensure that the people of the Central African Republic can live without fear and start rebuilding their country, and to make sure that humanitarian aid can be provided. EUFOR RCA will deploy as soon as possible to back the remarkable efforts of France and our African partners."

Major General Philippe Pontiès [57 KB] was appointed by the EU's Political and Security Committeeas Operation Commander.

General Jean Marc Bacquet  [427 KB]  was appointed as Force Commander of the European Union military mission in the Central African Republic on December 2014. He took over command from General Thierry Lion [88 KB] , who led the EU Force for over eight months.

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