Description

The United Nations Pre-Deployment Training Course – 40 (UNPDTC-40) was held at the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) from 21 October to 1 November 2024. This course serves as a fundamental training for all peacekeeping personnel, equipping them with the essential knowledge required to operate effectively in UN peacekeeping missions. Its primary objective is to adopt a shared understanding of the core principles, procedures, and policies of UN peacekeeping. The course covers critical themes and priorities, including conduct and discipline, sexual exploitation and abuse, the protection of civilians, human rights, gender mainstreaming, conflict-related sexual violence, child protection, and environmental protection.

Participants

The course was attended by 11 personnel of the Pakistan Army.

Conduct Methodology:

The course was designed to prepare peacekeeping personnel for their roles in assisting the host countries in their pursuit of peace. It covered basic UN functioning and specialized assignments through modules like Core Pre-deployment Training Material (CPTM), which focused on UN systems, legal frameworks, and specific subjects. Also, the adjunct Faculty presentations provided insights from UN partners. Scenario-based exercises enhanced participants’ responses to diverse situations, fostering readiness for UN security and cultural environments.

Closing Ceremony

Brigadier (R) Engr Syed Mohsan Shah, Head of the Peacekeeping Training (PKT) Department, in his closing remarks, commended the successful completion of the UNPDTC-40. He acknowledged the course’s ability to simulate a near-real UN office environment, enhancing the participants’ preparedness for future missions. Over its relatively short history, the Peacekeeping Training Department has made remarkable progress by organizing more than 200 courses and training 3,981 peacekeepers in alignment with UN policies and guidelines. The Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) remains in close institutional partnership with leading regional and international peacekeeping training entities, further solidifying its reputation.

HOD PKT further highlighted Pakistan’s pivotal role in UN peacekeeping missions. Under the UN flag, the country consistently contributes soldiers, police officers, diplomats, civil servants, and relief workers to conflict-affected regions. The country holds the distinction of being among the leading Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) globally. In conclusion, he expressed confidence that this course would serve as a milestone in broadening the participants’ understanding of the UN system and their roles in multidimensional peacekeeping missions. He emphasized the importance of such training in preparing participants to navigate the complexities of global conflict paradigms effectively.

Course Pictures