𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐇𝐄𝐍𝐒𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐅 𝐂𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐀𝐍 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐒𝐄

The Comprehensive Protection of Civilians (POC) Course currently ongoing at the HPSS is designed to prepare peacekeepers for one of the most critical responsibilities in today’s missions safeguarding civilians in conflict environments. With 25 participants drawn from the military, police, and civilian sectors, the course brings together a diverse cohort representing 18 countries including Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Gambia, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Switzerland, South Sudan, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Somaliland, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.The programme, co-funded by the Government of the United Kingdom through British Peace Support Team Africa (BPST-A) and the Government of Slovenia through the Peace Operations Training Centre (POTC), recognizes that modern peace support operations have become increasingly complex, with civilians often bearing the heaviest burden of conflict.The course equips participants with practical tools to plan, coordinate, and implement protection strategies in the field. Through scenario-based exercises, case studies, and group discussions, they learn how to work collaboratively across military, police, and civilian lines an essential skill in today’s integrated peacekeeping missions.