Adapting to Adversity: FBA's Peace and Security Efforts in Ukraine

Recently, FBA advanced its agreement to partner with Dnipro State University of Internal Affairs, a regional state law enforcement university in eastern Ukraine that trains police cadets and civilians near the front lines and in areas recovering from Russian occupation. This partnership involves developing a practical pilot course titled “Community Security in Wartime,” while working closely with local communities affected by the war to ensure it is practical, relevant, and effective. 

– Our partnership with the University builds on the recognition that trust – both between citizens and between citizens and the state – is integral in building resilient and secure environments. However, distrust arising from experiences during occupation and wartime will have to be understood by those seeking to re-establish and enforce law and order in war-affected areas, emphasizes Andreas Berg. 

The initiative aims to strengthen the collaboration between law enforcement providers, local governments, non-governmental organizations, and individual citizens. The goal is to prevent crime and conflict by identifying, analyzing, and responding to the specific stresses caused by the war in local communities. At FBA, this approach is termed “human security,” which focuses on the individual security needs of men, women, boys, and girls. 

– As we witness the strength and determination of the Ukrainian people, we are reminded that our mission must both respond to immediate needs and contribute to a foundation for a more secure, peaceful, and hopeful future. And that can only be done by continuously listening, learning, and adapting our experiences and methods from other countries to provide relevant and impactful support, says Andreas. 

For a broader account of FBA’s peace and security efforts in Ukraine and Andreas Berg's reflections on this crucial work, read our latest blog post.