About us

With violence increasing around the globe, the protection of civilians has become a cornerstone of United Nations peace operations mandates. This challenging mandate is often the yardstick by which the International community, and the affected populations, judge the worth of peacekeepers. Failures to protect civilians rightfully receive wide spread publicity. The first peace operation to have received this mandate was UNAMSIL – UN Assistance Mission in Sierra Leone – in 1999. Since then, the Security Council has met regularly on the issue of ‘Protection of Civilians (POC)’ and granted ever more robust mandates to the peacekeeping missions.

Overview

The UN Department of Peace Operations (DPO) and the Department of Field Support (DFS) have devoted significant attention to improving performance in this area by: Working with peace operations to develop a conceptual framework for POC; supporting the peace operations to develop comprehensive POC strategies, which assists them in harnessing all available resources for the task; and developing protection of civilians training courses targeted at personnel about to deploy, as well as those already working in peace operations. These courses are aimed at military, police and civilian personnel. Centre for International Peace & Stability (CIPS) is an internationally recognized and UN certified premier institution providing training courses on various aspects of peacekeeping, including POC. The POC course is based on the training modules developed by the United Nations Integrated Training Service (UNITS). The POC training materials are intended to provide all peacekeeping personnel (military, police/civil armed forces and civilians) with a shared understanding of the basic principles, guidelines and policies of UN peacekeeping concerning protection of civilians to ensure that UN peace operations can tackle their protection functions effectively.

Participation

The course is open to professionals from military, police, civil armed forces, academia, students, civilians and the members of the UN agencies/programmers / INGOs / NGOs.

Course Fee:

Confirmed participants shall deposit the fee at the time of arrival with the representative of the Training Team as under:

• NUST faculty and Student – Rs. 3000/-
• Others – Rs. 5000/-

The participants will make their own lodging, messing, and transportation arrangements.

Incentive:

1. United Nations Certificate of Participation and Qualification, which may become handy in acquiring a job in UN, INGOs and NGOs.
2. Gaining an understanding of the protection concepts and mechanisms for coherent and effective POC activities.
3. Interaction with a diverse range of faculty and participants from various countries and professions.

Duration: 07 – 18 April 25
Timings: 9 am to 4:30 pm (Monday – Friday)
Register at: https://forms.gle/Ww9ZAsGzZpNNuAdt9

Deadline for online registration: 1400 Hours,  25 Mar 2025

 

UNMOC-39

Description

The United Nations Military Observers Course – 39 (UNMOC) was conducted at the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS), NUST Islamabad, from 18 to 29 November 2024. The objective of this course was to equip Peacekeepers for their positions as UN Military Observers in both current and prospective UN Peacekeeping Operations. 

Participation

The course featured 38 participants, including 15 officers from friendly countries and officers from the Pakistan Army. The allied officers represented a diverse range of countries, including Belarus, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Russia, South Africa, Malaysia, Mali, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Mozambique, and Vietnam.

Conduct Methodology

Participants underwent a three-tiered training process, encompassing Core Pre-deployment Training Materials (CPTM), Specialized Training Materials (STM), and the facets of in-mission training. Military Observers from selected missions provided briefings on mission environments, mandates, and the specific roles/assignments of military observers. This approach offered participants a more contextualized understanding of their deployment areas.

Closing Ceremony

The Participants were awarded certificates by the Chief Guest, Dr. Muhammad Makki, the Associate Dean CIPS. followed by closing remarks. Brigadier Sajjad Ahmad, SI(M) (Retired), Head of the Peacekeeping Training Department (PKT) gave the closing remarks wherein he extended heartfelt congratulations to the participants on the successful completion of the Course. He further emphasized that the training and sensitization of potential peacekeepers remain pivotal aspects of pre-deployment preparations for all troop-contributing countries. At the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS), there is a steadfast commitment to advancing this mission, striving to serve as a Centre of excellence in peacekeeping training and education. In its relatively short yet impactful history, CIPS has achieved remarkable milestones by organizing more than 200 courses and training more than 4,000 peacekeepers in alignment with UN standards. The Centre also continues to promote institutional partnerships with leading regional and international peacekeeping training institutions, ensuring its practices remain globally relevant and effective. He also expressed confidence that the course would serve as a cornerstone in broadening the understanding of the Participants about the UN system. He affirmed that the knowledge and skills gained would undoubtedly prepare them for their future roles as military observers in complex, multidimensional, and integrated peacekeeping missions amidst today’s challenging global conflict dynamics.

Course Pictures

Description:

United Nations Staff Officer Course-45 was held from 2^nd Sep to 13^th  Sep 2024. The purpose of the course was to provide a comprehensive understanding of the United Nations’ functioning, basic principles, guidelines, and policies. The course aimed to equip attendees with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively fulfill their responsibilities as Staff Officers (SOs) in Field Headquarters (FHQ) and Sector Headquarters (SHQ).

Participation:

The course had a total of 34 participants. Among them, 19 were officers from the Pakistan Army, including 5 female officers. The remaining 15 participants were from foreign countries, including Turkiye, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Morocco, Sri Lanka, China, Mali, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Russia, South Africa, Egypt and Vietnam.

Instructors:

The participants received training from a diverse group of instructors, including:

• Peacekeeping Training Faculty
• Representatives from Pakistan Army and Police Directorates
• Representative from the UNHCR
• Subject-Matter Experts (SMEs)

Conduct Methodology:

The course was conducted as per Integrated Training Service (ITS) developed training materials. The Core Pre-Deployment Training Materials (CPTM) remained a fundamental component of the course. Participants received DPO/DOS guidance material such as peacekeeping training policies, standard operating procedures and basic guidelines Also, Subject-matter experts (SMEs) in the field delivered valuable lectures.

Closing Ceremony:

In his closing remarks, Brigadier (R) Engr Syed Mohsin Shah, HoD PKT, commended the participants, representing Pakistan and various friendly nations, for their engagement in a diverse and immersive learning environment. He emphasized the critical importance of pre-deployment training for peacekeepers, highlighting the Centre for International Peace and Stability’s (CIPS) role as a Centre of Excellence in preparing peacekeepers in line with UN standards. Noting the Department of Peacekeeping Training’s impressive achievements, with 206 courses and the training of over 3,938 officers to date, he praised CIPS for its collaboration with regional and international peacekeeping institutions. He also lauded Pakistan’s longstanding commitment to UN peacekeeping missions and its recognized contribution over the past 76 years. Congratulating the graduates, he expressed confidence that the course would significantly enhance their understanding of the UN system and their future roles as UN Staff Officers. He further extended his best wishes to all participants, especially the foreign officers, hoping they carried home not only valuable knowledge but also fond memories of Pakistan’s traditional hospitality.

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Description:

United Nations Staff Officer Course (UNSOC-44) was held from 22 July to 02 August 2024. The purpose of the course was to provide a comprehensive understanding of the United Nations’ functioning, basic principles, guidelines, and policies. The course aimed to equip attendees with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively fulfill their responsibilities as Staff Officers (SOs) in Field Headquarters (FHQ) and Sector Headquarters (SHQ).

Participation:

The course included 27 participants from the Pakistan Army.

Instructors:

The participants received training from a diverse group of instructors, including:

• Peacekeeping Training Faculty
• Representatives from Pakistan Army and Police Directorates
• Representative from the UNHCR
• Subject-Matter Experts (SMEs)

Conduct Methodology:

The course was conducted as per Integrated Training Service (ITS) developed training materials. The Core Pre-Deployment Training Materials (CPTM) remained a fundamental component of the course. Participants received DPO/DOS guidance material such as peacekeeping training policies, standard operating procedures and basic guidelines Also, Subject-matter experts (SMEs) in the field delivered valuable lectures.

Closing Ceremony:

Brig. (Retd) Engr. Syed Mohsin Shah, Head of the Peacekeeping Training Department, congratulated the participants on successfully completing the course. He highlighted the remarkable progress made by the department in its relatively short history, organizing 207 courses and training over 3,380 peacekeepers in alignment with UN policies and standards.

He emphasized that the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) maintains strong institutional partnerships with leading regional and international organizations, ensuring alignment with global standards and best practices. He further acknowledged Pakistan’s meaningful role in UN peacekeeping missions was underscored, with regular contributions of soldiers, police officers, diplomats, civil servants, and relief workers to conflict areas under the UN flag. Pakistan holds the distinguished position of being among the leading troop-contributing countries (TCCs) globally, a testament to its national commitment to international peace—a commitment widely acknowledged and respected.

In closing, HOD PKT extended his congratulations to the successful participants. He expressed confidence that the course would serve as a milestone in developing a broader understanding of the UN system among the participants.

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Description

The United Nations Military Observer Course -37 (UNMOC) was conducted at the Centre for International Peace and Stability, NUST, Islamabad from April 22 to May 3, 2024. The objective of this course was to equip peacekeepers with the necessary skills for their roles as UN Military Observers in both existing and potential UN Peacekeeping Operations, ensuring they possess the essential knowledge to excel in operational environments. Participants were tasked with applying a range of knowledge, skills, and attitudes associated with the role of a UN Military Observer within the context of the UN Integrated Training Service.

Participation

The course was attended by nine military personnel out of which four were lady peacekeepers.

Conduct Methodology
Participants underwent an intensive training process that included Core Pre-deployment Training Materials (CPTM), Specialized Training Materials (STM), and in-mission training. The sessions and trainings were conducted by the people representing diverse relevant institutions which include:

• UNAIDS
• UNHCR
• Subject Matter Expert on Women, Peace and Security
• ISPR
• Military/Motorway Police Authority
• Med Dte, Engr Dte.

UNMOGIP Visit

The course participants visited the Head Quarters of United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) located in Islamabad. They were briefed on the ongoing practices of the military observer group and their utilization on the field. Observing the on-ground practices made the attendees to experience the real time working of the observer groups.

Closing Ceremony

In the closing remarks, Dr. Muhammad Makki, the Associate Dean of CIPS, congratulated the participants for the successful completion of the course along with the best wishes for upcoming deployments. In his short address he applauded the CIPS faculty and the guest speakers for their valued and precious investment of time and knowledge in the participants. Furthermore, he highlighted an undeniable role of Pakistan in the UN peacekeeping operations. As an advice, he realized the participants  of their significant role as peace fellows . At the end, he ascertained the firm commitment of the department to strive for attaining the international peace and stability and vowed to continue the unconditional efforts for the same.

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Description.

The United Nations Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course – 13 (UNCPoCC – 13) was held from 12 February 2024 to 23 March 2024. This UN-certified course was conducted with the purpose to educate and sensitize the participants about the functioning of the UN, the roles and responsibilities of the Peacekeepers, and educating participants about working in peacekeeping operations to develop a conceptual framework for PoC.

Participation.

The course was attended by 23 participants from diverse backgrounds, including military personnel, police officers, and civilians. Of these, 12 were from friendly countries such as Azerbaijan, China, Egypt, Jordan, Kenya, Morocco, Mozambique, Nepal, South Africa, and Turkiye. Additionally, 4 participants were from the Pakistan Army, 2 from the police department, and 5 were civilians, contributing to the course’s diversity.

Conduct Methodology.

The participants went through an initial test at the commencement of the course. The course mainly focused on the latest Specialized Training Material (STM) for the Protection of Civilians. However, important and relevant lectures from the Core Pre-deployment Training Module (CPTM 2107) were included.  Subject Matters Experts (SMEs) including representatives from UN organizations also delivered lectures.  Moreover, the interaction of both army officers and civilian participants fostered a collaborative environment conducive to mutual learning and the exchange of insights from diverse perspectives on peacekeeping.

Visits.

During their stay, the officers enjoyed visits to iconic landmarks in and around Islamabad with an entire day at Murree at the Chinar Golf Club, allowing them to experience the natural beauty of Pakistan. Alongside this, the participants visited the Lok Virsa Heritage Museum and Pakistan Monument to fully experience Pakistan and its rich heritage and culture.

Closing Ceremony.

During the closing ceremony of the United Nations Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course (UNCPoCC-13), Major General Raja Aftab Khan, HI (M), Retired, extended his compliments to the participants for successfully completing the course.

He highlighted the course’s importance in preparing participants to deal with real-time situations. Civilians, he noted, are often intentionally subjected to physical harm, psychological trauma, displacement, loss of livelihood, denial of access to basic needs, and grave human rights violations. These are just a few of the crises civilians face. He emphasized that understanding the dynamics of conflict zones and the laws and protocols governing armed conflict is essential for participants, regardless of their capacity within a UN mission. This knowledge, he stressed, is crucial for effectively protecting vulnerable populations.

Further, he underscored the necessity of being prepared to provide physical protection, humanitarian assistance, community engagement, capacity building, mediation, negotiation, and even monitoring and reporting. Expressing confidence in the participants, he mentioned that they had studied all these aspects and more during the two weeks of the UNCPoCC- 13. He also recommended comprehensively reviewing the case studies of atrocities committed by rebels to fully grasp the gravity and magnitude of the violence inflicted upon civilians, which would reinforce the course’s significance.

In closing, he once again congratulated the participants, faculty, and training team for successfully organizing and completing the course. He underscored that the knowledge and skills gained during this intensive course would greatly assist participants in their future assignments, enhancing their ability to perform their duties effectively in complex and challenging environments. Lastly, he expressed his confidence that the participants would apply what they have learned to safeguard the lives of civilians in conflict zones and contribute to the overall success of UN missions.

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Description

The United Nations Military Observer Course – 38 (UNMOC) was conducted at the Centre for International Peace and Stability, NUST Islamabad, from 3^rd June to 14 June 2024. The objective of this course was to equip Peacekeepers for their positions as UN Military Observers in both current and prospective UN Peacekeeping Operations. Participants were tasked with applying a range of knowledge, skills, and attitudes associated with the role of a UN Military Observer within the context of the UN Integrated Training Service.

Participation

36 officers participated in the course, with 16 attendees hailing from friendly countries including Azerbaijan, China, Egypt, Jordan, Mozambique, Ivorian, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Belarus, Canada, Kazakhstan, and Sri Lanka. While the remaining 20 participants were from the Pakistan Army.

Conduct Methodology

Participants underwent a thorough tiered training process, encompassing Core Pre-deployment Training Materials (CPTM), Specialized Training Materials (STM), and in-mission training. Military Observers from significant missions provided briefings on mission environments, mandates, and the specific roles/assignments of military observers. This approach aimed to offer participants a more contextualized understanding of their deployment areas.

Visits

During their stay, the officers enjoyed visits to iconic landmarks in and around Islamabad with an entire day at Murree at the Chinar Golf Club, allowing them to experience the natural beauty of Pakistan. Farewell dinner was hosted at the Monal Hill resort on the outskirts of Islamabad. Alongside this, the participants visited the Jinnah Super Market coupled with Centaurus Mall, and Pakistan Monument as well as the Faisal Mosque to fully experience Pakistan and its rich heritage and culture.

Field Exercise

The Peacekeeping Training Department conducted the field exercise for UNMOC-38 at Rawalpindi Cantonment. This practical training session was strategically designed to thoroughly prepare military observers for the complexities of peacekeeping missions. By incorporating scenario-based training, the exercise immersed participants in realistic situations such as IED handling, UN interactions, hostage crises, and evacuation coordination.

Certificate Distribution

The certificates were distributed by the honorable principal of NUST Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies (NIPCONS), Maj Gen Raja Aftab Khan, HI (M), [Retired].

Closing Remarks

In his closing remarks, Maj Gen Raja Aftab Khan, HI (M), [Retired], congratulated the participants on completing the UNMOC-38 course. He emphasized that the course equips participants with the skills and knowledge to succeed in diverse environments and undertake UN missions. The sensitization and training provided are crucial for surviving and operating effectively in conflict regions.

He praised the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) for its professional conduct of the course, highlighting that CIPS has trained over 3,700 peacekeepers to date. The Centre’s institutional partnerships with leading regional and international peacekeeping training institutions further underscore its commitment to excellence. He also commended Pakistan’s significant role in UN peacekeeping, noting the country’s global recognition for its sacrifices and unwavering commitment.

In the end, Principal NIPCONS advised the participants to uphold the principles of ethics, impartiality, respect for human rights, and civil-military coordination, as they now bear the responsibility of protecting peace. He once again congratulated the participants, wished them a bright future, and encouraged them to carry with them fond memories of Pakistan and its renowned hospitality.

 

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Description:

United Nations Staff Officer Course-43 was held from 20^th May to 31^st  May 2024. The purpose of the course was to provide a comprehensive understanding of the United Nations’ functioning, basic principles, guidelines, and policies. The course aimed to equip attendees with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively fulfill their responsibilities as Staff Officers (SOs) in Field Headquarters (FHQ) and Sector Headquarters (SHQ).

Participation:

The course included 16 participants from the Pakistan Army, of which 4 were female officers.

Instructors:

The participants received training from a diverse group of instructors, including:

• Peacekeeping Training Faculty
• Representatives from Pakistan Army and Police Directorates
• Representative from the UNHCR
• Subject-Matter Experts (SMEs)

Conduct Methodology:

The course was conducted as per Integrated Training Service (ITS) developed training materials. The Core Pre-Deployment Training Materials (CPTM) remained a fundamental component of the course. Participants received DPO/DOS guidance material such as peacekeeping training policies, standard operating procedures and basic guidelines Also, Subject-matter experts (SMEs) in the field delivered valuable lectures.

Closing Ceremony:

In his closing remarks, Brigadier (R) Engr Syed Mohsin Shah, HoD PKT, congratulated the participants on successfully completing the course. He noted that the course provided participants with an experience similar to working in a real UN environment. The training is expected to be a milestone in developing a broader understanding of the UN system and the participants’ future roles in peacekeeping missions within the challenging global conflict paradigm. The HOD PKT also expressed his gratitude to the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) for maintaining high training standards and extended his best wishes to the participants.

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Description

The United Nations Military Observer Course -37 (UNMOC) was conducted at the Centre for International Peace and Stability, NUST, Islamabad from April 22 to May 3, 2024. The goal of this course was to train the peacekeepers for their positions as UN military Observers in both, current and prospective UN Peacekeeping Operations and instill in them the essential knowledge required for their enhanced performance in operation areas. Attendees were asked for the application of the knowledge and skills with the role of UN Military Observer and within the context of Un integrated training service.

Participation

The course was attended by nine military personal out of which four were lady peacekeepers.

Conduct Methodology

Participants were exposed to a rigorous training process which encompassed Core pre-deployment Training Materials (CPTM), Specialized Training Materials (STM) and in-mission training. The sessions and trainings were conducted by the people representing diverse relevant institutions which includes:

• UN AIDS
• Motorway Police Authority
• Subject Matter Expert on Women, Peace and Security
• ISPR
• UNHCR
• Engineering Department

Field Visit

The course participants visited the Head Quarters of United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan located in Islamabad. There were briefed on the ongoing practices of the military observer group and their utilization on the field. Observing the on-ground practices helped the attendees to experience the real time working of the observer groups.

Closing Ceremony

In the closing remarks, Dr. Muhammad Makki, the Associate Dean of CIPS, congratulated the participants for the successful completion of the course along with the best wishes for upcoming deployments. In his short address he applauded the CIPS faculty and the guest speakers for their valued and precious investment of time and knowledge in the participants. Furthermore, he highlighted an undeniable role of Pakistan in the UN peacekeeping operations. As an advice, he realized the participants their importance in terms of image building of Pakistan as a responsible member of international community. At the end, he ascertained the firm commitment of the department to strive for attaining the international peace and stability and vowed to continue the unconditional efforts for the same.

 

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Gen.

The United Nations Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course – 12  (UNCPoCC – 12) was held from 19 February 2024 to 01 March 2024. This UN-certified course was conducted with the purpose to educate and sensitize the participants about the functioning of the UN, the roles and responsibilities of the Peacekeepers, and educating participants about working in peacekeeping operations to develop a conceptual framework for PoC.

Participation.

The course was attended by 36 participants from diverse backgrounds, including military personnel and civilians from various institutions. Notably, there were 4 serving officers, 6 retired officers from the Pakistan Army, and 26 civilians representing various educational institutions.

Conduct Methodology.

The participants went through an initial test at the commencement of the course. The course mainly focused on the latest Specialized Training Material (STM) for the Protection of Civilians. However, important and relevant lectures from the Core Pre-deployment Training Module (CPTM 2107) were included.  Subject Matters Experts (SMEs) including representatives from UN organizations also delivered lectures.  Moreover, the interaction of both army officers and civilian participants fostered a collaborative environment conducive to mutual learning and the exchange of insights from diverse perspectives on peacekeeping.

Closing Ceremony.

During the closing ceremony, Dr. Muhammad Makki, Associate Dean of CIPS, extended compliments to the participants of UNCPOC-12 for their successful completion of the course. He commended the dedication and commitment demonstrated by each participant throughout the program. Dr. Makki acknowledged the participants’ keen interest and their valuable contributions to fostering a collective understanding of the course, both in theory and practice. He particularly acknowledged the valuable contributions of subject matter experts such as Dr. Rathoor from, Brig H. Chohan, Mr. Tanveer Hussain from UNOCHA, Mr Rajwal from UNAIDS, and other esteemed representatives of the UN.

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