FREETOWN – The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has wrapped up a two-day intensive training programme for 128 members of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), equipping them for upcoming United Nations peacekeeping deployments.
The specialised course focused on International Humanitarian Law (IHL), Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and the prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA)—key areas essential for maintaining professional and ethical standards in international peacekeeping operations.
Designed to give troops a solid grounding in legal and human rights principles, the programme aimed to ensure Sierra Leonean peacekeepers fully understand their duties under international law and meet the operational and ethical requirements set by the United Nations.
The opening phase, held under the theme “The Peacekeeper’s Legal Compass,” explored how International Humanitarian Law applies in modern conflict settings. Instructors guided participants through practical elements of international law, military doctrine, and real-world case studies to clarify the legal limits of peacekeeping work.
Sessions paid particular attention to safeguarding civilians, medical staff, and civilian infrastructure during armed conflict and unstable conditions. Trainers also covered the lawful use of force and the duties of soldiers operating in complex environments where protecting vulnerable people is a top priority.
The second phase concentrated on preventing misconduct, especially offences linked to gender-based violence and sexual exploitation and abuse. The 128 personnel received briefings on their legal and professional obligations to stop such abuses in the communities where they may serve. Discussions included the United Nations’ zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, along with the accountability and disciplinary measures that apply to peacekeeping forces.
Participants also learned how to recognise and respond properly to gender-based violations in unstable operational areas, where women, children, and other at-risk groups often face greater dangers.
The training forms part of ongoing global efforts to improve accountability, discipline, and respect for human rights across UN peacekeeping missions. CHRDI’s programme is expected to strengthen the ability of RSLAF personnel to perform their duties professionally while upholding international humanitarian and human rights standards.
By combining legal education, civilian protection, gender awareness, and misconduct prevention into pre-deployment preparation, the initiative seeks to prepare Sierra Leonean troops not only to handle security challenges effectively but also to uphold the values and standards of United Nations peacekeeping.
The programme highlights the importance of training soldiers to represent Sierra Leone with professionalism on the world stage, while contributing to the protection of civilians, the maintenance of peace, and the promotion of human dignity in conflict-affected countries.
