Improving skills to make the world a safer place

ABOUT POTC

The Peace Operations Training Centre (POTC) of the Republic of Slovenia delivers training activities for military, police, and civilian personnel of our three overseeing ministries and for other civilian experts who can be deployed to peace operations and missions under the UN, EU, AU, NATO and OSCE umbrella. As contemporary security challenges are becoming ever more complex, the integration of different methodologies and a multidimensional approach are needed to equip future mission members with the necessary skills and expertise. POTC, as an interdepartmental training centre, provides such comprehensive trainings.

Organisation and implementation of trainings for participation in peacekeeping operations and missions would not be possible without the support and cooperation of our three overseeing ministries: the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and the Ministry of Defence.

Organisational chart (click to enhance):

COMING UP

HOSTILE ENVIRONMENT AWARENESS TRAINING 2026

27 September-2 October, 2026

Participating in a HEAT contributes to the security and situational awareness of an individual, reinforces a safety and security awareness mindset, and helps to develop confidence in hostile situations. Intended for up to 20 professionals with different backgrounds, working or aiming to work in international peace missions and operations in fragile countries/territories. 

slovenia climate security training 2025

12-16 October, 2026

This training offers an in-depth exploration of how natural resources influence conflict dynamics and peace processes, covering essential legal frameworks, emerging challenges, and strategic solutions. This 2026 edition builds upon the success of the inaugural training delivered two years ago. The programme continues to align with Slovenia’s priorities within the United Nations, where the country has championed the critical link between environmental stability and global security.

slovenia climate security training 2025

8-9 June, 2026

The Regional Roundtable on UN Peace Operations is a high-level intergovernmental event focused on the future of regional engagement in United Nations peace operations. The roundtable is organised by the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Slovenia and the Peace Operations Training Centre, in cooperation with the UN Light Coordination Mechanism. It will take place on 8 and 9 June 2026 in Ljubljana and Grad Jable, Slovenia.

OUR MISSION

We offer specialised trainings for civilian personnel, police personnel and military personnel. Below are some of the main topics we cover, while we also routinely deliver tailor-made training activities:

Climate Change, Peace and Security

Recognising climate change as a security issue and a significant global threat multiplier, POTC developed an training programme in 2023, covering the various impacts of climate change on peace and security worldwide. POTC was one of the first training centre in Europe and the world to deliver this type of training activity. The next editions will build upon the pilot delivery, incorporating subject matter changes to provide an updated and enhanced learning experience.

Cultural Heritage Protection

Cultural heritage is a common good passed from previous generations, and threats to cultural heritage can be an indicator of underlying tensions. Trafficking presents a considerable source of financing for international crime and terrorism, so we are paying more attention to protecting heritage in the security sector as well.

Training of Trainers (ToT)

ToT provides a platform for participants to delve into the practical application of learning theories, enhancing their ability to conduct impactful training sessions.

Comprehensive Protection of Civilians (UN-Certified Training)

In modern armed conflicts, civilian deaths often overtake those of soldiers and armed fighters. As of 2024, POTC holds a United Nations Certificate of Training Recognition for our Protection of Civilians training. This means that our training conforms to the UN pre-deployment standards. Protection of civilians is a broad topic touching on international law, human rights, conflict-related sex- and gender-based violence, minority rights, methodologies for protection of civilians from physical violence, etc.

Gender Mainstreaming/Gender in Operations

Protection from discrimination on the basis of sex and gender is enshrined in the Slovenian constitution and equality between women and men is at the core of the foundational values of the EU and the UN. We equip training participants with knowledge and skills that help them engage and include women as stakeholders in the peace-building and peacekeeping process.

Tailor-made Training Activities

Sometimes, the three overseeing ministries need special, tailor-made training activities that fit the needs of our partners. POTC develops and delivers these special training activities in close cooperation with our designated partners to make sure the needs of peace operations personnel are met. In developing these trainings, we strive to meet the highest international standards with regard to curriculums and training execution.

Hostile Environment Awareness Training (HEAT)

Being able to effectively deal with risk-associated and emergency/critical situations while deployed in hostile environments abroad is crucial for the well-being of a mission member and for the overall success of the mission as well. That is why we deliver intensive four-day courses for future mission members to deal effectively with risk-associated and emergency/critical situations while deployed in hostile environments abroad. The course is designed for individuals with little or no experience of working in conflict areas.

International Humanitarian Law (IHL)

The International Humanitarian Law Training equips peace personnel with the knowledge to comply with legal obligations, protect human rights, and prevent war crimes in conflict zones. This training enhances mission effectiveness, promotes accountability, and ensures peacekeepers’ actions align with ethical and international legal standards., fostering a deep understanding of the evolving military technology landscape.

Disruptive Military Technologies and Practices

Experts and attendees engage in interactive discussions on future security challenges and innovative approaches to emerging technological threats, fostering a deep understanding of the evolving military technology landscape.

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