European Security and Defence College

Overview

• Role: The EU’s key provider of training and education on Common Security and Defence Policy in the wider context of the EU's foreign and security policy
• Director (Head): Fergal Ó Regan
• Established in: 2005
• Number of staff: 29
• Location: Brussels, Belgium
• Website: ESDC

What it does

The European Security and Defence College (ESDC) supports the EU’s efforts to promote peace, security, and stability by providing training and education in the field of the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) in the wider context of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP). It ensures that personnel are well prepared to face the EU’s current and future security challenges while enhancing the common European security and defence culture.

Functioning as a network, the ESDC unites civilian and military training and education institutes working on security and defence. This enables resource pooling and sharing, promotes best practices, and ensures efficient use of public funds while delivering high-quality training. It also acts as a diplomatic tool, cooperating with like-minded partners.

Who benefits 

From leadership and crisis management to cybersecurity, the ESDC offers a broad range of courses for Union staff, as well as for Member States' civilian, diplomatic, police, and military personnel, all working towards a more peaceful and secure future.

With special focus on CSDP missions and operations, the ESDC provides training across all phases of staff assignments, including pre-deployment and in-mission training. Each year, over 4 500 personnel are trained. In addition, the ESDC coordinates the 'Military Erasmus’ programme, which facilitates the exchange of more than 4 000 cadets each year.