UNITAR Online Catalogue

Introduction to peace operations [PTP.2012.25E]

Deadline
5 Sep 2012
Type
Course
Location
Web-based
Date
to
Duration
4 Weeks
Programme Area
Peacekeeping
Price
$500.00
Event Focal Point Email
ptp@unitar.org

Background

Peacekeeping is one of the many tools employed by the United Nations and other international organizations to help address diverse threats to international peace and security. Since its inception, peacekeeping has contributed to preventing and managing violent conflict between and within States and supporting national actors in protecting and building peace after conflict. Today, with over 116,000 personnel deployed across 15 missions, the scale of the United Nations' involvement in peacekeeping operations is unprecedented and the diversity of mission mandates has stretched the capacity of the organization to deliver on all tasks.

Event Objectives

The goal of this course is to review the organization of peacekeeping operations by providing an overview of the framework in which they are developed, studying their overall structure, and discussing the roles and responsibilities of the different actors involved.

Learning Objectives

At the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Define the framework of UN peacekeeping operations;
  • Review the procedures for the establishment of a UN peacekeeping operation;
  • Describe the functioning of a UN peacekeeping operation;
  • List key standards of conduct and discipline for UN peacekeepers.

Content and Structure

The course is composed of four modules that will be covered over four weeks:
  • Module 1: Overview of a UN peacekeeping operation
  • Module 2: Planning of a UN peacekeeping operation
  • Module 3: Mandate’s implementation
  • Module 4: Standards and values of UN peacekeepers

Methodology

UNITAR PTP adopts an approach to training that highlights experiential and collaborative learning. This approach focuses on the learning needs, interests and styles of participants to ensure the relevance and retention of content and puts particular emphasis on the active participation of learners through practice-oriented learning environments.
 
UNITAR PTP’s approach allows participants to share knowledge and experiences and contribute dynamically to the learning process. Through this process, participants not only acquire information but also contribute to the construction of knowledge in a way that is meaningful and directly applicable to the reality of peace operations. Instructors guide participants through this process, delivering and conveying information, clarifying doubts and supporting participants through different activities.
 
UNITAR PTP’s approach to training puts particular emphasis on monitoring and evaluation.  This process continuously develops course structure and activities to better suit participants’ areas of interest. This also allows for a review process that systematically improves course design and implementation for future versions of the course.

Targeted Audience

Courses address a broad audience of civilians, such as students, researchers, academics and individuals from governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as national and regional military and police personnel of every rank and function.
 
Participants are not expected to have prior experience in or knowledge of the field. However, for advanced courses, a general understanding of the structure, components and functioning of a peace operation is highly advisable.