Universalia is involved in the analysis of peacekeeping and peacebuilding policies and in international humanitarian operations at UQAM

Yvan Conoir organizes and coordinates the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQÀM) Faculty of Political Science and Law Summer Schools each year: http://dandurand.uqam.ca/component/content/article/113-divers/1167-missions-de-paix-operations-humanitaires-et-consolidation-de-la-paix.html (in French only).

Although the Schools are mostly intended for graduate students, they also welcome various professionals. Since academic programs on these topics are virtually non-existent among Quebec universities, these summer schools provide an opportunity to understand some of the most important contemporary international dynamics in response to international peace and security and the thrust of humanitarian operations. A new à la carte formula is attracting a growing number of professionals who must spend a certain number of hours every year on professional development (such as members of the Quebec Bar Association).

Based on a number of conferences presented by speakers from all professional backgrounds, the Schools combine an academic approach with a more hands-on and practical one. This year, Mr. Edmond Mulet, the second-in-command for Peacekeeping Operations at the United Nations, honoured the Peacekeeping Summer School with his presence. A number of officials from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), UN peace missions, international NGOs and several universities (including McGill, UQAM, Laval, Laurentienne, Montréal, Grenoble) have also come together in Montreal this year to chair debates and guide the work at UQAM Summer Schools.

Next year, the Summer Schools will translate into a short program offered by the Faculty of Political Science and Law (UQAM) through which students who meet specific requirements will be able to add a new professional designation to their resume.