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Description
The project will enhance the current educational and training system of the Czech Police by expanding it by three new training programmes related to area of human rights, crime prevention and improved effectiveness of the police system. The project will support the strengthening and improving capabilities and skills of the Police and relevant public administration staff dealing with constantly changing security situation, growing aggressiveness, national and international crime. The project will take into account the previous cooperation between the Czech Republic and the Norwegian Radiation Authority on issues connected to CBRN.
The project will include, inter alia, the following main activities:
- Training of police and public administration staff, judges, environmental inspectorate staff, territorial self-government entities, and representatives of NGOs and academia,
- Training activities focused on ability to eliminate potential risks of organized crime, mainly for RRU members,
- Training of trainers in following programmes: human rights, preventing and combating national and international crime, improving effectiveness of the police system and its performance,
- Networking meetings between the Police, NGOs, academia, municipalities, vulnerable victims, staff for social and legal protection of children, prosecutors,
- Common exercises and exchange of experience between the Rapid Response Unit and DELTA (Norwegian Partner) related to hostage situations and on the CBRN area (chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear).
Summary of project results
The aim of the project was to expand the current educational system and address the need to improve the preparedness of police forces in responding to new threats in the areas of crime prevention, human rights protection, and ensuring security. The project focused on overcoming challenges related to the shortage of qualified instructors, the relevance and effectiveness of training programmes, and ensuring the systematic dissemination of expert knowledge across the entire police force. As part of the project, activities were also included that took place between police officers from the highly specialised elite Rapid Response Unit (RRU) and a Norwegian partner. Cooperation between the police, international partners, and other entities was a key element of the project, which enabled the introduction of more efficient working methods and the establishment of long-term collaboration. Thanks to these activities, the Czech Police are better prepared for current security challenges and capable of responding effectively to the dynamically changing threats in the areas of crime and public safety.
The PDP1 project resulted in significant improvements in the professional competencies of the Czech Police officers and civilian staff in areas such as human rights compliance, managerial skills, and crisis intervention. Key activities of the project, part of Training Programme No. 1 – Human Rights Training Programme, included the creation of a publication on the topic of the restriction of personal liberty by the Czech Police, which was distributed within the police force. The publication provides a detailed analysis of constitutional and legal requirements in this area and serves as a valuable resource for professional audiences.
Another key activity was the establishment of a systematic training programme focused on soft managerial skills. The training of internal trainers I and II created a broad base of experts capable of passing on knowledge to other police leaders and civilian employees. This initiative led to the strengthening of managerial skills and the increased effectiveness of police communication and performance.
The project also focused on the professional training of police psychologists and crisis intervention specialists. Certified training in EMDR methods, supervisory seminars, and education in post-traumatic care were key steps in enhancing their expertise. Given the growing security threats and the increasing psychological strain on officers, this area has become critical. The Czech Police now has its own crisis intervention team capable of providing immediate professional support to both police officers and victims of crime.
Further educational activities were dedicated to intercultural competence, working with minorities, and crime prevention. Seminars for social workers, crime prevention managers, and police officers deepened their knowledge of human rights, minority rights, and effective approaches to individuals at risk of criminal victimization. Special attention was given to protecting children and their specific situations during interrogations and interactions with the police.
A significant activity was the international expert conference, which shared best practices and experiences in working with particularly vulnerable victims. The conference fostered collaboration between the police, the non-profit sector, and international partners. A substantial portion of these individuals were trained within the project, resulting in a significant improvement in their knowledge and skills. This shift not only enhances their professional competence but also contributes to the higher quality of services provided by the police. Thanks to these activities, Czech Police officers and their civilian colleagues are now better prepared to handle complex situations that require not only professional knowledge but also the ability to communicate effectively and act in accordance with human rights and ethical standards.
Training Programme No. 2 - Crime Prevention and Combatting National and International Crime focused on the practical aspects of crime prevention and specialized training for elite police units. Within the programme, a course on tactical exercise planning, scenario creation, and safety aspects of exercises was implemented, ensuring the effective use of modern digital technologies in the training of special units. The course was intended for elite officers of the Rapid Response Unit (ÚRN).
Another key activity was the workshop on operational responses to active shooters, aiming to enhance expertise and methodologies for interventions against organized crime offenders, extremist groups, and terrorists. The experiences gained were incorporated into the operational procedures and training methods of the various police units.
A significant part of the programme also focused on non-lethal coercion methods and the behavioral analysis of suspects at airports. The training concentrated on identifying suspicious individuals at international airports and on aircraft, which is becoming a key element in preventing terrorist attacks. This activity resulted in the creation of a methodology for identifying suspects and a training video that will continue to be used in police practice.
The educational activities also targeted crime prevention in socially excluded areas, training police specialists in minority protection, and combating prejudice-driven crimes. A methodology summarizing approaches to crime prevention and social pathology was created, which will benefit not only the target group but also the entire state''s security forces.
An important component of the programme was a seminar on Wildlife Crime in the Czech Republic, focusing on current cases, trends in combating illegal trade in protected species, and forensic methods in environmental protection. A major aspect was the sharing of experiences and networking between the police, customs, judges, prosecutors, and experts from universities and non-governmental organizations.
The project also involved interdisciplinary education aimed at increasing the safety of seniors, preventing fraud, and raising awareness among government and local government officials about crimes committed against older adults. An informational brochure on fraud targeting seniors was created, which will be used as a preventive tool.
Collaboration between the police and other entities, including the non-profit sector and international partners, enabled the sharing of experiences and the implementation of more efficient working methods. Thanks to this collaboration, follow-up activities will be implemented to further increase expertise and efficiency in police operations. The PDP1 project has thus become a significant milestone in the education and preparation of Czech Police officers for contemporary security challenges.
Training Programme No. 3 - Focused on Improving the Efficiency and Effectiveness of the Police System specifically targeted elite police officers from the Rapid Response Unit (ÚRN) and their professional preparation in combating terrorism and organized crime. Key activities of this programme included courses focused on acquiring and developing specialized knowledge using innovative elements. One of the main courses was training in the application of new tactical methods using motorcycles in operations against terrorist and organized groups. Another significant activity was a course improving skills in driving vehicles under extreme conditions, focusing on speed, dynamics, the correct strategy for intervention, and optimizing driving techniques in crisis situations.
In addition to tactical aspects, the training programme also focused on expanding skills in surveillance and monitoring the movement of targets in various environments. Officers were trained in the use of advanced specialized techniques, including controlling personal and automotive GPS systems and working with maps in unfamiliar terrain. A crucial component was also training in observation and capturing photo and video footage from hidden positions, which included selecting the right position, choosing telephoto lenses, remote control, and documentation in the infrared spectrum.
As part of international cooperation, the course was expanded to include specialized training in negotiation for elite ÚRN negotiators, led by instructors from the FBI, as well as a course for police explosives experts. These activities were closely integrated and allowed participants to effectively expand their knowledge and practical skills in crisis situations. All courses included both theoretical and practical components, with a focus on realistic simulated situations.
The programme also provided essential materials and equipment for training, ensuring the long-term sustainability of training for these specialized units. The key outcome of this training programme is the expansion and deepening of the professional knowledge of elite police officers who play a crucial role in ensuring security and combating sophisticated forms of crime.
The PDP1 project significantly contributed to the professionalization and preparedness of Czech Police officers and civilian employees. Thanks to these three training programmes, there was a substantial increase in knowledge and skills, which directly impacted the improvement of police work quality and security readiness. The Human Rights Training Programme strengthened legal awareness and the protection of fundamental freedoms, while crime prevention and the fight against organized crime brought new strategies for eliminating security threats. The programme aimed at improving the police system’s performance provided elite officers with practical skills and innovative approaches in the fight against terrorism and organized crime.
The PDP1 project was successfully implemented, and its objectives were achieved in all key areas. Through systematic education and targeted skills development, significant improvements were made in the professional competencies of police officers in the fight against organised crime, particularly in response to new methods and tactics in the field of terrorism. The courses and training provided enhanced the preparedness of elite police units for operations against active shooters and perpetrators of terrorist attacks, significantly strengthening the security readiness of the Czech Republic.
An important output of the project was the training of police specialists and instructors in key areas of police work. These experts now play a pivotal role in further educating members of the Czech Police Force and ensuring the transfer of new knowledge into police practice. Through human rights training, there was a deepening of knowledge and an increase in legal awareness among police officers, leading to a reduction in misconduct during police operations and enhancing the transparency of police activities.
Another significant aspect was the expansion of training for police specialists in the areas of crime prevention and addressing social pathologies. Seminars and expert workshops focused on new trends in crime and effective prevention methods, thereby increasing the expertise of those working in the field of crime prevention. The changes implemented throughout the project enabled the training of a broader circle of police officers and experts, improving the overall capacity of the security system.
The project also had a significant impact on broader target groups, such as the citizens of the Czech Republic. Thanks to the improved readiness of police officers, especially elite units, there was a more effective response to threats such as active shooters and terrorist attacks, directly enhancing public protection. Human rights training led to better conduct by police officers in the field, contributing to increased public trust in the police and reducing misconduct during police interventions. Thanks to the trained specialists and instructors, the transfer of new skills and knowledge into police practice will continue, which will have a long-term positive effect on the effectiveness of the security system across the country.
The outcomes and results of the project unequivocally confirm that PDP1 achieved its original goals. It strengthened the professionalism and preparedness of the police forces, enabled more effective responses to new threats, and contributed to improving the quality of police work. The creation of an internal team of experts and instructors ensures the long-term sustainability of training, allowing for the continuous strengthening of the capabilities and skills of Czech Police officers in line with current security challenges. The PDP1 project has thus become a significant step towards the modernisation and professionalisation of police forces, contributing to the increased security and stability of the Czech Republic.
Summary of bilateral results
As part of the PDP1 project, international cooperation in police education and training of elite units was significantly strengthened. The project facilitated bilateral cooperation between the Czech Republic''s Rapid Rapid Unit (ÚRN) and the Norwegian Special Unit Beredskapstroppen (DELTA) Oslo. This collaboration allowed for the sharing of best practices, methods, and experiences between Czech and Norwegian elite officers.One of the key benefits of this activity was a joint tactical exercise, focusing on crisis management, hostage rescue, and tactical operations in various environments. The exercise provided an opportunity to compare the procedures and tactics used by both countries and identify areas for further development in training.The cooperation continued with an international training activity focusing on protection against Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) threats. This training not only enhanced the technical preparedness of officers but also improved interoperability during international operations.The bilateral partnership between the ÚRN and DELTA Oslo has significantly contributed to enhancing the quality of police training, strengthening joint operational capabilities, and deepening international collaboration in the field of special police units. Thanks to this cooperation, there has been a notable shift in the training methodologies of elite police units, laying the foundations for further joint projects and training between the Czech and Norwegian sides.