EU appoints Czech diplomat as new head of Border Assistance Mission in Libya

The European Union Border Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM) has appointed Czech diplomat Jan Vycital as the new head of the mission.

The Political and Security Committee of the EU Council decided to appoint Vycital in replacement of Natalina Cea, reports say.

The Czech diplomat will assume office on January 1, 2024 and run the mission until June 30, 2025.

Vycital currently serves as Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Tunisia, with accreditation for Libya. He previously served as Czech Ambassador to Iraq and to Libya. He also served at senior level for more than 20 years.

EUBAM Libya was launched in May 2013 and tasked to contribute to enhancing the capacity of the relevant Libyan authorities and agencies in the management of Libya’s borders; fight cross-border crime, including human trafficking and migrant smuggling; and counter terrorism.

The mission also provides technical advice, and capacity-building activities at the operational and technical levels, including projects and specialized training.