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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