UNODC and OSCE delivered capacity-building training on Countering the Financing of Terrorism for Kosovo under UNSCR 1244

 

16-18 April 2024, Peja/Pec, Kosovo[1]:The CFT Disruption Course marked the culmination of the Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) program, representing a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts between the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). The course, held from 16 to 18 April brought together representatives from various agencies and underscored the importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating the financing of terrorism and transnational criminal networks.

A team of eight local trainers, supported by two lead experts, delivered the course to their colleagues from the Tax Administration, Financial Intelligence Unit, Directorate for Investigation of Economic Crime, Counter-terrorism Directorate, Basic Court/Special Department, the National Coordination Office Against Terrorism and the Prosecution’s Office. The trainers completed a train-the-trainer course held in February in Vienna where the co-produced scenarios were tailored to the local context.

Throughout the program, participants engaged in comprehensive training sessions covering various aspects of financial investigation methods, international standards and tracking illegal money movements. Interactive exercises were conducted to foster practical learning experiences and enhance participants' understanding of key concepts. A key highlight of the course was the emphasis on fostering inter-agency collaboration. Participants from diverse backgrounds came together to exchange knowledge and best practices, strengthening partnerships among various agencies. The course provided an opportunity for participants to reflect on their learning journey and discuss strategies for applying newfound knowledge in their respective roles.

The CFT Disruption Course served as a testament to the effectiveness of capacity-building initiatives in promoting professional growth and organizational resilience. The collaborative efforts of UNODC, OSCE, and participating agencies underscored the importance of sustained cooperation in disrupting the financial lifelines of terrorist organizations and transnational criminal networks.

Prior to the training, a Senior Leaders Briefing was organized in Pristina where an overview and outcomes of the training programme were presented in front of the senior management of the agencies involved in the programme.

Financial support for the course was generously provided by the United States of America. The course was implemented by OSCE and the Global Porgammme against Money Laundering, Proceeds of Crime and Financial of Terrorism (GPML) in cooperation with the UNODC Regional Programme for South Eastern Europe.

 

[1] All references to Kosovo shall be understood in the context of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999)