The Peace Support Operations Training Centre (PSOTC) of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina successfully hosted the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) Orientation Course in Sarajevo from 1 to 5 June 2026. The course brought together 25 participants, including four from Bosnia and Herzegovina and 21 from twelve partner countries, reflecting a strong commitment to international cooperation.

The opening ceremony was attended by Major General Maurizio Fronda, Commander of the European Union Force (EUFOR) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, who delivered remarks alongside PSOTC Commandant Colonel Damir Alibašić. In his address, Major General Fronda emphasised: “Courses such as the CSDP Orientation Course help build shared understanding, strengthen professional networks, and enhance cooperation among security and defence professionals.”

The CSDP Orientation Course was organised by the European Security and Defence College (ESDC), in partnership with PSOTC, the Austrian National Defence Academy, and the Austrian Centre for Peace. Its purpose was to offer a thorough understanding of the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). The course offers an overview of the CSDP's key instruments and the roles of the various EU institutions within the CSDP. Other key topics include the EU's integrated approach, the planning processes for civilian and military missions and operations, regional aspects, and the ongoing development of the CSDP. In addition to imparting fundamental knowledge, the course also addresses current issues.

The CSDP Orientation Course was organised by the European Security and Defence College (ESDC) in partnership with PSOTC, the Austrian National Defence Academy, and the Austrian Centre for Peace. Its primary aim was to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the European Union’s Common Security and Defence Policy. The course covered key instruments of the CSDP, as well as the roles and responsibilities of various EU institutions. Additional topics included the EU’s integrated approach, planning processes for civilian and military missions and operations, regional perspectives, and the ongoing development of the CSDP. Alongside foundational knowledge, the programme addressed current and emerging issues in the field.

Throughout the week, participants actively engaged in group activities, discussions, and practical exercises. The course not only enhanced participants’ knowledge but also served as a valuable platform for networking, fostering professional relationships, and exchanging experiences and expertise among CSDP practitioners.

The closing ceremony recognised the participants’ achievements and highlighted the course's overall success. In his address, Colonel Damir Alibašić, Commandant of PSOTC, commended the participants for their dedication and expressed gratitude to the Centre’s partners for their continued and steadfast support. H.E. Mag. Georg Diwald, Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to Bosnia and Herzegovina, underlined that the knowledge and skills gained during the course go beyond academic learning and represent essential tools for addressing complex challenges in the field of security and defence.

Special recognition was extended to key partners and contributors, including the Embassy of the Republic of Austria in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the European Security and Defence College (ESDC), the Austrian National Defence Academy, the Austrian Centre for Peace, the Directorate for European Integration of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Faculty of Political Sciences at the University of Sarajevo.

PSOTC remains committed to advancing international cooperation through high-quality training, education, and strong global partnerships.