Head of Mission – Ralf Schroeder

On 16 August 2025, Brigadier General Ralf Schroeder of the German Federal Police assumed his role as Head of Mission of the European Union Advisory Mission in Iraq (EUAM Iraq). He brings more than 25 years of professional expertise in counterterrorism, crisis management, and international policing, combining strategic leadership with extensive operational experience.

Ralf Schroeder receives the EUAM Iraq flag during the transition of authority, upon assuming his responsibilities as Head of Mission.

Throughout his career in the German Federal Police, Mr. Schroeder held several senior leadership positions, including Deputy Commander and Chief of Operations of GSG 9, the Federal Counter-Terrorism Unit. At the Federal Police Headquarters, he was entrusted with responsibilities for strategic planning and operational management.
At the international level, Mr. Schroeder was appointed Police Commissioner with the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) and earlier worked as Police Advisor with the UN Mission in Sudan (UNMIS).

His operational background also includes assignments in Afghanistan, Iraq, Somalia, and Sudan, where he contributed to high-level security and advisory functions. Most recently, he was Deputy Head of Mission at EUAM Iraq, gaining in-depth knowledge of Iraq’s security institutions and building close working relations with national counterparts.

Reflecting on his appointment, Mr. Schroeder stated: “It is an honour to lead EUAM Iraq. Together with our Iraqi counterparts and international partners, we will continue to strengthen civilian security institutions and support the foundations of a stable and secure Iraq.”

Ralf Schroeder during his first speech as the new EUAM Iraq head of Mission.

As Head of Mission,Mr. Schroeder guides EUAM Iraq in delivering its mandate to provide strategic advice and expertise to Iraqi authorities on the civilian aspects of security sector reform, fostering cooperation and building sustainable institutional capacities.

Watch his introductory:

Read the official press release: 

EUAM Iraq: new head of mission appointed