Jaring Kloosterman is a seconded expert from The Netherlands who is based in EUAM Iraq’s Erbil presence as a Senior Strategic Adviser on Security Sector Reform. After serving in EU CSDP Missions in Kosovo, Afghanistan and Libya, he shares his impressions on Iraq, the Mission life and what keeps him going.
Briefly describe your career and tell us why you applied for a position with EUAM Iraq.
I have been a police officer in the Netherlands for 32 years, during which I have held various positions, primarily in leadership roles since 2007. My international experience includes working with the EU in several missions in Kosovo, Afghanistan, Libya and, currently, Iraq. I am deeply committed to supporting people in their own countries by helping them where they live. I believe in the principle of mutual support: if we expect others to help us in times of need, we must also be willing to offer our assistance when we can. This belief is what drives me to contribute to international missions like EUAM Iraq.
Tell us about your daily work.
I live and work in Erbil, the Kurdistan region of Iraq, where I serve as a Senior Strategic Adviser on Security Sector Reform. In this role, I support, organise, facilitate, and coordinate developments within the security sector, including the civil police organisation. My work also involves bridging between the EUAM Headquarters in Baghdad and Mission’s Erbil presence. Ultimately, it’s all about “connecting the dots”.
How do you find working with colleagues from many different backgrounds?
The international environment is truly unique. People from many different nationalities and cultures come together within the Mission. At times, the cultural differences and customs can lead to funny, surprising and unexpected moments, but also enrich our experience. In the end, we all share the same goal, which is to help and support the Iraqi people. This common goal creates a strong sense of unity, makes the Mission feel like one big family, and I’m proud to be a part of it.
What has been the most rewarding or memorable experience for you in the Mission so far?
The most rewarding experience so far has been discovering Iraq, especially the beautiful countryside. I have had the chance to visit the city of Baghdad as well as the scenic landscapes of the Kurdish region. It has been a meaningful experience to witness how helpful and welcoming the people of Iraq are and I am truly touched by their warmth and friendliness. The mission life and working in Iraq is one big adventure.
If you could live anywhere, where would you choose?
I believe that at a certain age, after having lived and worked in several countries around the world, the best place to be is simply at home with family. Being surrounded by loved ones is what truly matters. There’s no exotic place I can think of that could ever compare to the feeling of being with the people I care about most.
How do you relax?
Life in a mission can sometimes feel lonely. Mission life is not suitable for everyone, as it can be challenging and demanding. However, I find ways to relax through sports, movies, books, and the occasional games. What helps me unwind the most, though, is staying in touch with my family back home. I talk to my wife and kids every day, just about everyday things. That regular contact and support from home make the sometimes-harsh realities of mission life much easier to cope with.