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European Security and Defence College

EAB SSR.DDR

ESDC configuration on Security Sector Reform and Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration

On the left Eulex Kosovo Police officers, in the middle ESDC logo mute version negetive, on the right mine clearence sign in Ukraine

About the configuration

Established in 2010, the ESDC Executive Academic Board on Security Sector Reform (EAB SSR) enhances CSDP expertise by coordinating EU-wide SSR training. In 2023, its mandate expanded to include Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration (DDR), forming the EAB SSR/DDR. The board ensures high-quality training across ESDC institutions.

 

Functions

The EAB SSR/DDR oversees the implementation of SSR/DDR courses, supports EU training groups, and ensures alignment with lessons from EU missions and operations. As the Discipline Leader for Military Support to SSR and DDR, the board identifies training needs within the framework of EUMTG in the Council, connects stakeholders, and fosters collaboration between CSDP experts and EU institutions.

 

Thematic Cooperation

In partnership with the EEAS Task Force on SSR, the board advances strategic EU frameworks, training programs, and seminars, bridging policy and practice. Training covers governance, accountability, risk management, and gender mainstreaming, strengthening SSR/DDR efforts within CSDP missions, EU delegations and beyond.

 

Integration of DDR

With DDR training integrated in 2023, the board explores synergies between SSR and DDR, implementing the EU’s revised strategic approach. This initiative bolsters Europe’s role in global peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and security while supporting resilience, development, and conflict prevention.

Chair and Configuration Support

  • Kurt Meissner, close up
    Chair - Kurt Meissner

    Kurt Meissner leads the Security and Defence Sector Reform Section in Austria’s Armed Forces Implementation Office for Arms Control. A former Chief Instructor at AUTINT, he specializes in SSR, DDR, leadership, and arms control training. As ESDC Core Course on SSR director, he represents Austria internationally and has chaired the ESDC Executive Academic Board on SSR since 2020, expanding to SSR and DDR in 2023. He also served as a UN Military Observer in peacekeeping missions in the Middle East, Cambodia, and Rwanda.

     

  • Fernando Angelo, neutral look on his face.
    ESDC Coordinator - Fernando Angelo

    Fernando Angelo is a Senior Military Officer with over 35 years of a distinguished military career, having held command, leadership, and directorial roles in both military and civilian organisations. Served as an intelligence officer for more than 15 years at the NATO Intelligence Fusion Centre and also held positions with the Portuguese Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security Centre, Navy Staff Intelligence Division, and Navy Intelligence Analysis Centre. Additionally, he worked in the security domain for over 3 years at the National Security Authority. During his career, he also supported a SSR/DDR mission within his area of expertise, with a focus on the African continent.

EAB SSR.DDR Contact Form