The chief co-ordinator and representative of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), including the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), within the EU. The High Representative is also one of the Vice-Presidents of the European Commission and chairs the Council of the EU when it sits in its Foreign Affairs configuration. The High Representative also attends European Council meetings, is Head of the European Defence Agency and, among other responsibilities, represents the EU at international fora, such as the United Nations.

In carrying out their mission, the High Representative is supported by the European External Action Service (EEAS). The EEAS works in co-operation with EU member states' diplomatic services. It comprises officials and agents from the EU, as well as personnel seconded from national diplomatic services.

The High Representative is appointed by the European Council acting by a qualified majority, with the agreement of the President of the Commission for a mandate of five years.

The role was created under the Treaty of Amsterdam and expanded by the Treaty of Lisbon. Since 1 December 2019, the position has been held by Josep Borrell Fontelles, who succeeded Federica Mogherini (2014-19), Catherine Ashton (2009-14) and Javier Solana (1999-2009).

For more information, see Practice note, EU institutions: overview: High Representative.