Matthias Catón successfully completed a training course for civilian personnel in international peace and election observation missions in 2008. The course was organized by the ZIF to prepare for missions of the United Nations (UN), the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the European Union (EU), and other international organizations.

The two-week “Core Course Peace Operations” was held near Berlin and on the UN Training Centre of the German Armed Forces in Hammelburg. The following topics were taught through a mix of lectures, interactive sessions and practical training:

• History and development of international peace operations
• Structure and mandate of international organizations such as the UN, OSCE, and EU
• Analysis of past and ongoing conflicts
• International law, human rights, and rule of law
• Code of conduct
• Intercultural communication
• Negotiation and mediation
• Monitoring and interviewing techniques
• Gender aspects in conflict situations
• Cooperation with non-governmental organizations
• Civil-military cooperation
• Radio communications
• Use of maps and GPS
• Use of four-wheel drive vehicles
• First aid and stress management

The security training covered:

• Protective measures against various weapons and ammunition types
• Mine awareness and recognition; avoidance of bombs and other explosive devices
• Behaviour at legal and illegal checkpoints
• Behaviour in complex risk situations and hostage-taking