BRUSSELS, (Unib Rashid) – Kajsa Ollongren has been appointed the new Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS), bringing extensive experience in European foreign policy, security and government to one of the European Union’s key diplomatic institutions.

Ollongren previously served as the European Union Special Representative for Human Rights. She has also held several senior positions in the Dutch government, including Minister of Defence, Minister of the Interior and Deputy Prime Minister of the Netherlands.

The European External Action Service welcomed Ollongren in a post on its official X account, describing her as the new EEAS Secretary-General and highlighting her extensive political and diplomatic experience.

“Welcome to our new EEAS Secretary-General, Kajsa Ollongren,” the EEAS said.

The EU diplomatic service noted that Ollongren’s previous role as the EU Special Representative for Human Rights, together with her experience as a former Dutch Defence Minister, Interior Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, would provide valuable expertise in her new position.

In her new role, Ollongren will support EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas in shaping and implementing the European Union’s foreign and security policy.

Her appointment comes at a time when the EU is seeking to strengthen its common foreign and security policy and enhance coordination among member states on major international challenges.

With her background in government, defence, human rights and European affairs, Ollongren is expected to play an important role in strengthening the EU’s diplomatic and foreign-policy machinery through the EEAS.