Peacekeeper Conduct and Discipline Training Course
Introduction
The credibility and effectiveness of United Nations peacekeeping operations hinge directly on the exemplary conduct and unwavering discipline of every peacekeeper. This 5-day training course on Peacekeeper Conduct and Discipline provides an essential and comprehensive guide to the ethical standards, legal obligations, and professional expectations that govern personnel deployed under the UN flag. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the critical importance of upholding the highest standards of behavior, recognizing that individual actions have profound implications for the mission's mandate, the safety of beneficiaries, and the reputation of the entire peacekeeping enterprise.
This intensive program is designed for all military, police, and civilian personnel preparing for or currently serving in UN peacekeeping missions, as well as those involved in pre-deployment training and oversight. It will equip attendees with the knowledge to identify and prevent misconduct, understand reporting procedures, and internalize the profound responsibility that comes with wearing the blue helmet or serving the UN. By fostering a strong culture of integrity, accountability, and respect, this course aims to ensure that peacekeepers not only fulfill their mandated tasks but also serve as true examples of the values they represent, ultimately building trust with the communities they protect.
Duration: 5 Days
Target Audience:
- Military and Police personnel designated for UN Peacekeeping deployments
- Civilian staff intending to work in UN field missions
- Pre-deployment trainers and instructors for peacekeeping personnel
- Commanders and supervisors of peacekeeping contingents
- Human Resources and Conduct & Discipline Officers
- Legal advisors supporting peacekeeping operations
- Government officials involved in contributing troops/police to UN missions
Objectives: Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the core principles and standards of conduct expected of all UN peacekeepers.
- Identify different categories of misconduct, with particular emphasis on Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA).
- Explain the prevention, reporting, and response mechanisms for misconduct in UN peacekeeping missions.
- Recognize the individual and collective responsibilities for upholding discipline and preventing misconduct.
- Articulate the impact of peacekeeper conduct on mission effectiveness, community trust, and the UN's reputation.
Course Modules:
Module 1: Introduction to Peacekeeper Conduct and Discipline
- The importance of conduct and discipline for UN peacekeeping mission success and credibility.
- The "blue helmet" as a symbol of trust and protection.
- Overview of the UN's zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, especially SEA.
- The legal and ethical framework for peacekeeper conduct.
- Individual and collective responsibility for maintaining high standards.
Module 2: Core Principles and Standards of Conduct
- Respect for local laws, customs, and cultures.
- Impartiality, integrity, and independence in duties.
- Professionalism and dedication to duty.
- Non-discrimination and respect for diversity.
- Prohibition of acts of corruption and fraud.
Module 3: Prohibited Conduct: Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA)
- Defining Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA): what it is and what it isn't.
- The devastating impact of SEA on victims, communities, and the mission.
- UN's zero-tolerance policy on SEA and its implications.
- Prohibited acts, including consensual sexual relationships with beneficiaries.
- Consequences of SEA: criminal, disciplinary, and administrative actions.
Module 4: Other Forms of Misconduct
- Abuse of authority and power.
- Theft, fraud, and corruption.
- Trafficking in persons, drugs, or cultural artifacts.
- Unauthorized use of UN property or resources.
- Violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.
Module 5: Prevention of Misconduct
- The role of leadership and command responsibility in prevention.
- Pre-deployment training and continuous in-mission awareness.
- Code of Conduct and Rules of Engagement.
- Creation of a protective environment for victims and whistleblowers.
- Wellness and psychosocial support for peacekeepers.
Module 6: Reporting Mechanisms and Victim Assistance
- Obligation to report all allegations of misconduct, especially SEA.
- Confidential and safe reporting channels (e.g., Conduct and Discipline Team, OIOS).
- Protection against retaliation for reporting.
- Victim-centered approach to assistance and support for survivors of SEA.
- Cooperation with national authorities in investigations.
Module 7: Response to Misconduct: Investigation and Accountability
- Overview of the investigative process for misconduct allegations.
- Roles of the Conduct and Discipline Team (CDT), Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS), and national authorities.
- Disciplinary and administrative procedures within the UN system.
- The role of troop-contributing countries (TCCs) in national prosecution.
- The challenge of impunity and efforts to strengthen accountability.
Module 8: Impact of Conduct on Mission Effectiveness and UN Reputation
- How misconduct erodes trust with local populations.
- Impact on mission mandate implementation and peacebuilding efforts.
- Damage to the reputation and credibility of the UN and contributing countries.
- The role of good conduct in protecting civilians and building confidence.
- Promoting a culture of integrity and accountability for long-term impact.
CERTIFICATION
- Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate
TRAINING VENUE
- Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.
AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION
- Airport pick up and accommodation is arranged upon request
TERMS OF PAYMENT
Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com