Strengthening Medical Personnel Capacities in UN Peace Operations

This technical report outlines the initiative by UNITAR to enhance the physical and mental well-being of military and police personnel involved in UN peace operations. The project, funded by the Government of Canada, aimed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of medical and para-medical personnel from eight African countries. A total of 161 participants attended eight training events held between 2020 and 2021, focusing on addressing physical and psychological trauma in a gender-responsive manner. The training included modules tailored to the specific contexts of different peacekeeping missions, considering operational specificities and gender-specific needs. Follow-up surveys indicated a high level of satisfaction among participants, with 99% reporting increased confidence in their abilities to address trauma. The report also highlights the application of skills learned during training in real-world medical emergencies, demonstrating the training's relevance to participants' professional roles. Overall, the initiative aims to improve the effectiveness of medical care in challenging environments.