The United Nations Military Observer Course – 35 (UNMOC)
UN Certified Course
Description
The United Nations Military Observer Course – 35 (UNMOC) was conducted at the Centre for International Peace and Stability, NUST Islamabad, from October 16 to October 27, 2023. 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
Sixteen officers participated in the course, with 12 attendees hailing from friendly countries including China, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Nepal, Russia, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, and Kazakhstan, along with four officers from Pakistan.
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.
Field Exercise:
UNMOC-35, orchestrated by the Peacekeeping Training Department, recently undertook a pivotal field exercise in the semi-mountainous terrain of Pabbi, 160 km from Islamabad. This hands-on training proved to be the cornerstone of UNMOC-35, designed to prepare military observers comprehensively for the intricacies of peacekeeping missions. The exercise, meticulously crafted with scenario-based exposure, immersed participants in realistic situations such as UN interactions, hostage crises, and evacuation coordination. By simulating such challenges, the exercise aimed to equip military observers with practical skills and a nuanced understanding of their roles.
Certificate distribution
H.E. Mohamed Karmoune, Ambassador of Morocco presented certificates to successful participants. The ceremony was also attended by esteemed representatives from Tunisia and Russia.
Closing remarks
In his closing statements, Maj General Raja Aftab Khan, the principal of NIPCONS, commended the participants. Stressing the importance of peacekeeping, particularly in the face of evolving conflicts, Principal NIPCONS underscored how training programs like these are instrumental in comprehending and effectively addressing dynamic challenges. He highlighted essential characteristics a peacekeeper should embody, emphasizing impartiality, neutrality, and professionalism. Additionally, he praised CIPS for delivering a comprehensive course that ensures participants acquire indispensable knowledge and skills for successful engagement in peacekeeping missions.
