As part of its ongoing support to Iraqi security institutions, EUAM Iraq organised a study visit to Spain for a delegation from the Iraqi National Security Service (NSS). The visit provided an opportunity for senior NSS representatives working in the fields of counterterrorism, intelligence analysis, operational coordination and strategic assessment to exchange experiences with Spanish counterparts and gain insights into European approaches to addressing evolving security threats.
Through meetings and professional exchanges with Spanish institutions, the delegation explored practical examples of intelligence coordination, information sharing, and interagency cooperation in support of national security objectives. Discussions focused on intelligence-led approaches to counter-terrorism investigations, intelligence fusion models, and mechanisms for coordinating information among different security actors. Attention was also given to the ways in which European institutions identify, assess and respond to emerging terrorist threats, including challenges related to foreign terrorist fighters, returnees and violent extremism. The delegation further exchanged views on analytical methodologies, data exploitation, terrorist financing, and the role of intelligence in supporting operational decision-making.
“The visit offered the Iraqi delegation valuable insights into how European security institutions combine strategic analysis, operational coordination and information sharing to strengthen national responses to terrorism and organised crime and engage directly with the European counterparts, and at the same time explore practical approaches to addressing contemporary challenges.” said Waut Es, Senior Strategic Adviser from Belgium, working at EUAM Iraq.
In addition to enhancing professional knowledge, the visit contributed to building stronger relationships between Iraqi and European counterparts. These exchanges are expected to support future technical cooperation and create further opportunities for dialogue on shared security challenges.
This study visit is part of EUAM Iraq's broader advisory engagement with the NSS in the fields of counterterrorism and prevention and countering of violent extremism. It complements previous cooperation activities, including training on criminal profiling, intelligence analysis and counter-terrorism investigations, and supports ongoing efforts to strengthen Iraqi institutional capacities in line with international best practices. Through initiatives such as this study visit, EUAM Iraq continues to support Iraqi security institutions in strengthening their professional capabilities, fostering international cooperation, and developing sustainable approaches to counterterrorism and security governance.
For more details about the prepatroy meeting, clik the link here.
