ZIF training for the EU mission in Armenia: Communication skills in action

In October, the Center for International Peace Operations (ZIF) was able to offer on-site in-mission training for 18 observers and translators from the EU Monitoring Mission in Armenia (EUMA). The aim was to train participants in conversation and interview techniques, thereby strengthening their communication and teamwork skills in the field.

The mission's international observers and local translators work together daily in the Armenian border area with Azerbaijan, and conversations with the local population are important sources of information. They also ensure transparency and build trust. Mindful communication and a clear understanding of roles are therefore an important basis for good quality work and access.
 

On the agenda: conversation techniques and reflection space

The ZIF course was aimed at both international observers and translators working for the mission, as they are always on patrol together. The training program included modules on

• Active communication – effective and respectful conversation techniques,
• Questioning on sensitive topics – dealing professionally with sensitive issues,
• Collaboration and mutual support – mutual support and cooperation in an international team.

The course also provided space for reflection on participants' own working methods and approaches. Such changes in perspective promote mutual understanding, willingness to compromise, and openness to joint development.
 

A learning experience for the ZIF team too

This in-mission training was not only a training opportunity for the participants; the ZIF training team also took advantage of this unique opportunity to gain valuable insights on site. Our trainers held preliminary discussions with mission personnel, went on patrols at altitudes of up to 3,400 meters in the Armenian border area, and gained first-hand experience of everyday work in this EU crisis management mission. These experiences will enrich future training development.
 

In-mission training courses meet the specific needs of the missions

With its in-mission training courses, the ZIF can respond precisely to the needs of the missions and thus help them to implement their mandate professionally and successfully. After all, every mission faces different challenges: the mandates vary, as do the conflict situation in the country of deployment and the composition of the team. All of this can be taken into account in a training format tailored precisely to the mission or the desired learning outcomes. In recent years, the ZIF has been increasingly in demand for such training and continuing education formats. In this way, it strengthens international crisis management “behind the scenes” – as a component of German foreign policy, it promotes the implementation of mandates by strengthening existing resources.
 

EUMA – the EU Mission in Armenia

The EU Monitoring Mission in Armenia was established in 2023 to contribute to stability and security in the region. It is headed by German Federal Police officer Markus Ritter, and Germany is one of the most important member states in terms of personnel (civilian experts seconded via the ZIF, federal and state police officers seconded via the Federal Ministry of the Interior) . The mandate of the unarmed, civilian mission currently runs until early 2027. Specifically, the approximately 200 employees from 25 EU member states are tasked with monitoring the security situation on the border with Azerbaijan, compiling reports , thereby also contributing to the safety of the population in the border area and promoting confidence-building between Armenia and Azerbaijan.