In a significant step towards enhancing collaborative efforts and strengthening regional partnerships, the Interagency Regional Analytical Group (IRAG) successfully concluded a working meeting on the adoption of the IRAG Work Plan for 2024. Building on the conclusions and agreements reached in December 2023, the meeting, held on 31 January at the Odesa headquarters, saw the active participation of IRAG members.

During the meeting, the IRAG Work Plan for 2024 was meticulously crafted, incorporating valuable contributions from the participating members. Through insightful discussions, participants reached a consensus on timeframes and assigned responsibilities to various services for the preparation of analytical papers. These papers will be developed based on the thorough analysis conducted by group members.

The meticulously prepared analytics are slated to be submitted for consideration by the Heads of Regional Services. Under the approved Work Plan, a crucial meeting with the Joint Risk Analysis Working Group from Moldova is anticipated, aiming to establish principles and methods of cooperation. Expressing a keen interest in fostering connections with Moldovan colleagues, IRAG members unanimously agreed to convene a meeting in Chisinau in late February to early March, under the auspices of the EUBAM.

The adoption of the IRAG Work Plan for 2024 reflects the group’s commitment to effective collaboration, regional security, and the establishment of meaningful partnerships. IRAG looks forward to further engagements and the positive outcomes that will undoubtedly arise from these concerted efforts.

IRAG brings together representatives from regional branches of key Ukrainian agencies, including the Ukrainian State Border Guard Service, Ukrainian State Customs Service, Special Service of Ukraine, Bureau of Economic Security of Ukraine (ESBU) and the National Police, to develop analytical reviews and threat assessments in the Odesa region.