Peacekeeping

Learning to improve peacekeeper security (2024)

Using scenario-based group exercises, attendees explored how storyboards could promote effective lessons learning

From 3 to 5 December, twenty-three civilian, military, and police personnel convened in Entebbe for a workshop on learning to improve security, as part of the Action Plan to Improve Security for Peacekeepers implementation.

The workshop objectives included ensuring the systematic capture of lessons from security incidents, good practices to be replicated, and gaps to be addressed. A highlight of the event was the introduction of the storyboard, a snapshot of tactical incidents and key lessons with actionable recommendations.

Using scenario-based group exercises, attendees explored how storyboards could promote learning. The exercises emphasized the importance of overcoming organizational and operational challenges that can hinder learning and the dissemination of lessons.

"It provided a valuable opportunity to collaborate with experts and representatives while focusing on enhancing security in peacekeeping environments," reflected Mwila Kamwela, from the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA).

“This experience offered insights into the challenges we face regarding security. I’m glad to see the United Nations encouraging collaboration to improve security within our work. Security is crucial in peacekeeping, and the proposed procedures from the workshop will help us achieve this goal.”

Benoit Romijn, from the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), said, “The workshop was instrumental in building renewed momentum around fostering a culture of learning.”

The value of in-person collaboration was also highlighted: “Meeting in person brings added value to workshops like this,” remarked Morgane Le Reste from the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).

For others, the workshop was an eye-opening experience. “I found this workshop very insightful and useful,” said Maj. Hina Zaigham from MONUSCO.

“I had the chance to meet other Best Practices Officers and learn about their work in their respective missions, which will help me evaluate and adopt improvements and good practices.”

The workshop underscored the UN’s commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation in enhancing peacekeeper security. It was funded through the United Nations Peace and Development Trust Fund established by the People’s Republic of China.

A dedicated mechanism to facilitate cross-mission learning on peacekeeper security has also been established at UN Headquarters in New York.