Military CSDP operations

Council Decision (CFSP) 2021/509 of 22 March 2021 establishing the EPF repealed Council Decision (CFSP) 2015/528. The EPF will thus replace the Athena mechanism, albeit without changing the manner in which common costs will be shared or administered. The EPF decision thus ensures continuity of the arrangements under Council Decision 2015/528. There are only minor changes compared to the Athena mechanism; most importantly, the EPF can also contribute to the financing of EU battlegroups (Annex IV.3). The EPF has the advantage that it will make EU funding for CSDP military operations available on a more permanent basis, which the EU hopes will improve programming, allow for more rapid deployment, and improve both flexibility and predictability. The Secretary-General of the Council is responsible for appointing the administrator for CSDP operations and providing their administrative staff. By contrast, the HR/VP will be responsible for the implementation of assistance measures, and will appoint an administrator for assistance measures.