On March 24–25 an intensive training dedicated to two-way communication between a community police officer and citizens was held at the Donetsk State University of Internal Affairs. The event, organized in cooperation with the Partnership for a Strong Ukraine Program, became an important stage in training law enforcement officers for service in difficult frontline areas.
Addressing the participants at the beginning of the event, the organizers emphasized: «Effective communication is not only the ability to speak, but also the ability to hear the community. Our goal is to implement security solutions based on the principles of two-way communication and mutual trust».
The theoretical part of the training began with a thorough analysis of the challenges and opportunities that an officer faces when working in a high-risk area. Together with experts, the participants considered effective communication channels and approaches to preparing difficult dialogues with residents. An important element of the first day was group work, during which the participants analyzed the vulnerabilities and needs of different categories of the population. The trainees learned not only to convey information, but also to formulate clear positive messages that can reduce tension and unite the community around common security goals.
The practical component of the training was dedicated to practicing the acquired knowledge through simulations of public hearings on security issues. The future community officers were immersed in realistic scenarios in which they acted as moderators of meetings, answered tough questions and sought compromise solutions in conflict situations. The training resulted in presenting certificates to the participants, which confirmed their successful completion of the course and the acquisition of new professional knowledge and skills.
The training was held with the support of the Partnership for a Strong Ukraine Program, which is funded by the governments of the United Kingdom, Estonia, Canada, Norway, Finland, Switzerland, and Sweden.
