Description

The United Nations Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course – 16 (UNCPoCC – 16) was conducted from 11 to 22 May 2026. This UN-certified course was designed to strengthen participants’ understanding and operational application of the Protection of Civilians (PoC) mandate within UN peacekeeping operations. It also provided participants with sensitization of UN functioning roles and responsibilities of the Peacekeepers and educated participants about working in peacekeeping operations to develop a comprehensive framework for PoC.

Participation

The course was attended by 21 participants from diverse backgrounds. Of these, 12 were allied officers from friendly countries, including Jordan, Malawi, Sri Lanka, KSA, Qatar, Morocco, Mozambique, and Egypt. One lady officer from the Pakistan Army and 8 civilians representing various institutions in Pakistan also attended.

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 Materials (CPTM) were included.  Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), including representatives from UN organizations, also delivered lectures.  Moreover, the interaction between army officers and civilian participants promoted a collaborative environment conducive to mutual learning and the exchange of insights from diverse perspectives on peacekeeping.

Visits

During the course, participants had the opportunity to experience Pakistan’s cultural and natural heritage through organized visits. These included exploring iconic sites in Islamabad, enjoying a day at Murree’s Chinar Golf Club, and attending a farewell dinner. Additional visits included Jinnah Super Market, Centaurus Mall, Lok Virsa & Pakistan Monument, providing participants a well-rounded experience of Pakistan’s hospitality and rich cultural traditions.

Closing Ceremony

During the closing ceremony of the United Nations Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course (UNCPoCC-16), His Excellency Dr. Maen Khreasat, Ambassador of Jordan in Pakistan, expressed his pleasure and honor in addressing the distinguished participants, faculty members, and guests. He highlighted the diverse international representation of the course participants, noting that such diversity mirrors the multicultural environments in which United Nations peacekeepers are required to operate. He emphasized that training and sensitization of prospective peacekeepers remain vital components of pre-deployment preparations for all Troop Contributing Countries.

His Excellency commended the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) for its continued role as a Centre of Excellence in peacekeeping training. He acknowledged the significant achievements of the Department of Peace Operations Training, which has successfully conducted more than 250 courses and trained over 4,500 peacekeepers in accordance with United Nations policies and guidelines. He also praised the Centre’s contribution to in-situ training for infantry battalions and multi-role units, where CIPS teams serve as master trainers and evaluators of peacekeeping contingents, describing these efforts as an outstanding contribution to international peacekeeping.

In his concluding remarks, Ambassador Khreasat congratulated the successful participants of UNCPoCC-16 and expressed confidence that the training had broadened their understanding of the United Nations system and enhanced their preparedness for future peacekeeping responsibilities. He further hoped that participants would leave with positive memories of both the course and Pakistan’s hospitality and warmth. Wishing them continued success in their professional endeavors, he also commended CIPS for organizing the course in a highly professional and impactful manner.

Subsequently, the allied officers from Jordan, Sri Lanka, KSA, Morocco, and Egypt presented mementos and souvenirs to HoD DPOT Brig Sajjad Ahmad, SI(M), Retd. In return, HoD POT presented the souvenir to Chief Guest Ambassador Dr. Maen Khreasat, along with a copy of the Annual CIPS Magazine and the academic journal NJIPS.

Course Photos

United Nations Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course – 16 (UNCPoCC – 16)