Realistic Training for UN Missions – International Collaboration as a Key to Success
Through their deployments in UN missions around the world, Swiss peacekeepers contribute significantly to global security and stability – often operating in challenging geographical conditions and within unstable and increasingly volatile geopolitical contexts. Realistic, practice-oriented training is therefore essential. The UN Military Observer Course, which concluded in early July, is an example of how international cooperation, interoperability, and shared standards form the foundation for effective engagement in complex mission environments.
Text Daniel Seckler, Head of Communications SWISSINT
In a time of growing geopolitical tensions and conflict, the role of impartial military observers is more important than ever. Their presence not only helps to maintain peace and stability in conflict regions, but also strengthens trust between nations. Before the Swiss Armed Forces deploy officers in this role to peacekeeping missions, they undergo training at the Training Centre SWISSINT at the Wil military base near Stans in Oberdorf NW. There they complete the internationally composed Swiss United Nations Military Observer Course (SUNMOC). “One key element of this mission-specific basic training is the multinational environment,” says Lieutenant Colonel Mike Butora, course director of the SUNMOC. “Swiss officers live and work alongside participants from other countries. This fosters exchange and a deeper understanding of different cultures, perspectives, and behaviours – which is essential for future deployments to UN missions.” The team of experienced instructors who train the participants is also internationally composed. It shows the multinational approach that SWISSINT pursues in close cooperation with partner nations to prepare future peacekeepers.
International cooperation within the framework of 4-PCE
Switzerland’s participation in the cooperation format Fo(u)r Peace Central Europe (4-PCE) – a network of training centres from the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland – is an example of effective international training cooperation. The aim of this partnership is to jointly develop training, capabilities, and operational standards in the field of peacekeeping. Findings from current missions are incorporated into the training, contributing to a continuous improvement process and thus further strengthening the quality and realism of the preparation. Colonel (GS) Adrian Staub, Commander of the Training Centre SWISSINT, explains: “International cooperation provides us with a valuable platform for exchanging experiences with other nations – many of which have a broader operational and experiential spectrum than the Swiss Armed Forces. We are able to incorporate the knowledge gained into our mission-specific training, thereby optimising the safety of future peacekeepers.”
The cooperation between the four centres has been steadily intensified over the past years and now provides a solid foundation for identifying new opportunities for joint development. Through this close collaboration with international partners and armed forces – as well as through training based on common standards – the Swiss Armed Forces are continuously strengthening their interoperability and operational readiness.
Real-World Training in a Multinational Context
As part of this cooperation, the joint cross-border final exercise “BLUE FLAG” was conducted in the tri-border region around Lake Constance as an integral component of the UN Military Observer Courses run by the four training centres. The participants of the Swiss course completed the multi-day exercise in the “Central Sector” of the fictional mission area “Centland”, located in the Appenzell region.
They were required to apply the full range of knowledge and skills acquired during the SUNMOC. Patrolling in difficult terrain, operating under stress, working in multinational teams, as well as demonstrating negotiation skills and intercultural communication were just as much part of the training as the ability to act with resilience in dynamic and complex situations. To ensure an optimal learning effect, the final exercise was designed to be as realistic as possible. Participants were deliberately pushed to their physical and mental limits.
During the final exercise, which lasted four days and consisted of approximately 90 training modules, instructors from the Training Centre SWISSINT – both professional military personnel as well as conscripted officers and NCOs – assessed the participants' performance under mission-like conditions. The exercise was supported by soldiers from Infantry Recruit School 14 and civilian role players.
Operational Readiness through Realistic Training
Focusing on realistic scenarios is essential for the effective deployment of future peacekeepers. In recent months and years, the security situation in many mission areas has deteriorated significantly. Geopolitical instability, fragile state structures, and unclear power dynamics shape the reality of numerous UN missions. For Swiss officers and their international counterparts deployed as military observers to such environments, this presents an enormous professional and personal challenge.
Meeting these demands requires deployed personnel to be equipped with the broadest possible skill set. Acting appropriately in conflict situations calls for a deep understanding of complex operational environments and the capabilities needed to carry out tasks in accordance with UN standards. This mission-oriented preparation enables participants to take responsibility even under challenging conditions – competently, with sound judgement, and in line with the UN mandate. In doing so, it not only strengthens their individual resilience but also underscores the credibility and effectiveness of Switzerland’s contribution to international peacekeeping.
