Common Security and Defence Policy

Overview

The EU Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), formerly known as the European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP), is a major element of the Common Foreign and Security Policy of the European Union (EU) and is the domain of EU policy covering defence and military aspects. The ESDP was the successor of the European Security and Defence Identity under NATO, but differs in that it falls under the jurisdiction of the European Union itself, including countries with no ties to NATO.

Formally, the CSDP is the domain of the European Council. Nonetheless, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy also plays a significant role. As Chairman of the external relations configuration of the Council, she prepares and examines decisions to be made before they are brought to the Council.