More than 50 representatives of the Gendarmerie, military officers from the General Staff and training institutions in Burkina Faso attended a recent DIILS program on peacekeeping for decision makers.

The DIILS team included three senior colonels from the United States Army who had extensive peacekeeping operations experience. The program was led by the DIILS International Operations Officer for AFRICOM, a U.S. Navy Judge Advocate.

The team members tailored the program with a focus on the commitments Burkina Faso has made to peacekeeping efforts in support of the African Union and the United Nations in Africa. The program included practical exercises and discussions on Rules of Engagement in peacekeeping operations as well as discussions on organization and doctrine for the United Nations and the African Union.

A highlight of the program included an African Center for Strategic Studies (ACSS) alumni event. DIILS adjunct faculty member, Colonel (retired) Mike Smith of the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs discussed developments in AFRICOM.