Introductory Course to Security Sector Reform (SSR)

The information below is relevant for civilian applicants. Experts looking to go on military missions should apply through FINCENT.

COURSE DATES
27 - 30 August 2013, Tuusula, Finland

COURSE CONTENT
This introductory level course provides participants with an understanding of SSR principles and practices. Through its practical and exercised-based methodology, it provides participants with a solid introduction to international good practice, both the political and technical aspects of SSR. It underlines the main skills required to support SSR and provides the necessary foundations for subsequent courses. The course provides an overview of the various dimensions of SSR and emphasises the importance of adopting a holistic approach when working on SSR in post-conflict contexts.

The course aims to build both SSR knowledge and skills. Through an interactive and practical training approach, this course will help participants to:

• Better understand the concept and evolution of SSR, including actors, concepts and principles;
• Understand the international policy framework for SSR;
• Recognize the political nature of SSR and the challenges faced when ‘supporting’ SSR processes in conflict affected or fragile states;
• Use concrete cases to build on lessons learned and apply concepts to practice.

The following list is indicative of some of the sessions that would be delivered in the course:

• Introduction to the concept of SSR and evolving approaches and international policy frameworks for SSR
• SSR, from concept to practice
• Scoping the security sector
• Gender-responsive SSR
• Principles and characteristics of SSR programming
• SSR programming in post-conflict contexts
• The role of non-state actors in SSR
• The challenge of coordination in SSR programmes

SELECTION CRITERIA
 Be ready and willing to participate in civilian crisis management missions in the near future

• Successfully completed basic course or prevoius civilian crisis management experience
•  Have an educational and professional background suitable for SSR tasks in civilian crisis management missions
• Be proficient in English
• Have a valid driving license (category B)
• Be physically and mentally in good health

INFORMATION ON THE COURSE
The course will be organised by the Finnish Centre of Expertise in Comprehensive Crisis Management, which consists of Crisis Management Centre (CMC) Finland and Finnish Defence Forces International Centre (FINCENT). The course will be carried out in collaboration with the International Security Sector Advisory Team (ISSAT) of the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF).

The cost of tuition, meals and accommodation are free of charge and arranged by CMC Finland.