Duration: 3 Weeks

Purpose: This course is designed to train students to function as joint border observers in areas of conflict.

Scope: This course focuses on the conduct of joint border observation operations in Latin America. Training consists of a historical overview of United Nations and other joint border observations missions, mission planning, information gathering and specific area analysis of the area to be observed. Prior to the final operations order briefing conducted by the students, they will be taught planning techniques in the areas of civil affairs, air operations, liaison operations, logistics, and observation post duties. Standard U.S. and U.N. mission-planning techniques are stressed. Land navigation and map reading training is conducted. Training in human rights and civilian control of the government are interwoven within all classes and practical exercises. Team building techniques are used throughout the course. The final two days are spent at the Inter-American Defense College in Washington, D.C., receiving briefings and information on current Inter-American affairs and policies. Guest speakers and actual mission participants will participate in instruction if an actual observation operation is in progress.

Subjects:

(Copied from School of the Americas website, February 1998.)