FAQs on the missions
Germany is to continue to participate in the Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan and in the maritime security Operation Sea Guardian in the Mediterranean. The Cabinet decided on 19 February 2020 at its regular meeting that both mandates are to be extended by one year. This must still be approved by the German Bundestag.
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A transport helicopter during a rescue exercise as part of Mission Resolute Support near Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan
Photo: Bundeswehr/Andrea Bienert
What is the aim of the mission in Afghanistan?
The Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan aims to train, advise and support Afghan national defence and security forces. Troops are deployed mainly in Masar-e Sharif and Kunduz. The aims of the German government in Afghanistan remain unchanged: security, human rights and sustainable economic and social. With a view to achieving these goals, the mandate for the mission has been extended by one year by the German government.
How is the conflict in the country to be resolved?
In the short term, the priority goal of the German government’s political activities is to see inclusive peace negotiations commence within Afghanistan. The negotiations should have the support of as many social groups as possible within Afghanistan, including women, and should be shaped by these groups. They are to preserve what has been achieved in recent years and build on this.
The path to a political solution to the conflict will not be short or straight, and continues to require intensive and reliable support. In the northern region, Germany is framework nation and has the support of 21 nations.
Afghan defence and security forces are increasingly to perform more and more duties independently. This is the precondition for a peace process within Afghanistan, for continuing civilian reconstruction and for development cooperation.
What are the aims of the mission in the Mediterranean?
Given the major importance of sea traffic and maritime supply routes, security in the Mediterranean is crucially important for NATO and its member states. The NATO-led Operation Sea Guardian is monitoring the sea area and supporting maritime situational awareness to help address terrorism and arms trafficking. This benefits all Mediterranean states and users. It is based on resolutions of the United Nations Security Council and international multilateral treaties.
How does Operation Sea Guardian proceed?
Sea Guardian can control and search all ships suspected of being linked to a terrorist organisation throughout the Mediterranean. The mere presence of the forces also has a preventive impact.
In 2019 the Operation identified more than 10,000 ships in all, controlled 17 of them within the framework of maritime situational awareness approaches, and searched three ships at sea.
Who else is involved in the Mediterranean mission?
Other organisations that act in the Mediterranean, like the European Union, and the Mediterranean states make use of the Operation to cooperate, and to advance this cooperation. This includes training and joint exercises. Germany will continue to be a regular participant in Operation Sea Guardian.