Uruguay: Assessing the Gaps Between Theory and Experience in the Field
9 décembre 2010Yesterday was the third and last day of the Crosscutting Challenges to Modern Complex Peace Operations Seminar in Montevideo, in Uruguay. At 9 a.m. sharp, participants from 12 Latin American countries gathered in the auditorium of the National School of Peacekeeping Operations (ENOPU) to hear two excellent presentations: one by Dr. Marcella Donadio on the great work of the Latin American Security and Defence Network (RESDAL), and the other by my colleague Kristine St-Pierre on some of the crosscutting issues she observed during her recent field visit in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Both presentations generated a lot of interest and questions from the audience.
In the afternoon, the participants were divided in three groups to discuss gaps between theory and reality. This was most interesting given the fact we had, in the various groups, military, police, NGOs, as well as representatives from government, civil society, the United Nations and academia. Women were also well represented. The scenario had to clearly identify the stakeholders in missions, be fully integrated, i.e. include the civilian, military and police perspective, and list the expected outcomes. I was blown away by the talent, the expertise and the resourcefulness of the participants. The three groups came up with outstanding scenarios that they later presented to the larger group. It is amazing what can be achieved when people collaborate with each other.
Later in the afternoon, participants changed into their national uniform to attend the closing ceremony. They received a certificate and a group photo from the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre and the National School of Peacekeeping Operations. Many of their colleagues took pictures. High officials attended the ceremony. All in all, it was a great learning activity.
-Lucie, Membre du personnel du Centre Pearson pour le maintien de la paix
