The Defence Academy is celebrating the role of women in defence as part of International Women’s Day.
Major Jasmina Omerbegovic from the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (AFBiH) made history last year as the first person from her country to deliver defence training in the UK.
First invited to join the syndicate Directing Staff (DS) of the Defence Human Security Advisors (DHSA) course last October, such was her success she will be returning later this spring to assist in the delivery of the course for a second time.
Major Omerbegovic, who first attended the Defence Academy as a DHSA course member in May 2023, is the Bosnian Army lead on gender. Supported by the MOD, she works on policy development, and the integration of human security into the education and training of her own military. She said:
"Reassuming my role within DHSA as an instructor and member of the DS team presents a considerable advantage. It allows for the exploration and sharing of accumulated knowledge and experiences within the cohort for reciprocal learning. The multi-national environment reinforces the significance of multi-culturalism and its integration into military service. This not only enhances personal growth, but also enriches the learning process.”
The partnership is seen as integral to the building of defence relationships with Bosnia and Herzegovina in the field of human security, helping to reinforce the relationship between the two countries in support of wider defence diplomacy.
The course, which is delivered by The Defence Leadership Centre, focuses on:
- the protection of civilians, women, peace, and security, including conflict-related sexual violence
- integrity building and fighting corruption
- children in armed conflict
- modern slavery and trafficking in human beings
- prevention and combating violent extremism
- protection of cultural property in armed conflict
Major Peter Chilvers from the Defence Leadership and Business Group (DLaB) said of the appointment:
“I saw this as a real opportunity to cement the relationship and enable the AFBiH to offer something that not only builds their capability, but also reinforces mutual confidence and resilience. We are thrilled to announce that Major Omerbegovic will be back with us in April.”
The Defence Leadership Centre offers cutting edge leadership training, education and research into areas including:
- stress and resilience
- equality, diversity, and inclusion
- leadership, learning and development
- international defence engagement
- mental fitness and resilience
- coaching and mentoring
- leading diverse and inclusive organisations