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AFP to push Australia's Pacific police training model to reduce UN costs

Published July 6, 2026 at 4:43 AM UTC

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The Australian Federal Police (AFP) is set to advocate for the adoption of its Pacific police training model at the United Nations (UN) Chief of Police Summit (UNCOPS) in New York. This initiative aims to streamline the training process for UN peacekeepers, reducing the duration from several months to just five weeks, thereby enhancing efficiency and cost-effectiveness. AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett will present this proposal during the summit, emphasizing the potential benefits of the Australian model. She will highlight the success of training 100 police officers from across the Pacific last year, demonstrating the model's effectiveness. The UN has recently faced budgetary constraints, with the peacekeeping budget for 2026-27 being reduced by 10% to $5.1 billion. This financial pressure underscores the need for more efficient training programs. Commissioner Barrett's proposal seeks to provide a sustainable and affordable training solution that maintains high standards without overburdening the UN's budget. In addition to advocating for the training model, Commissioner Barrett will discuss the establishment of a new Pacific policing bloc, known as PACPOL. This initiative aims to address regional security concerns by ensuring that Pacific Island Police Chiefs have a greater voice in global forums concerning security and safety matters pertinent to their region. The proposal for PACPOL has garnered support from various Pacific nations, including the Solomon Islands, which has agreed to commence negotiations on a comprehensive security treaty with Australia. This treaty is expected to enhance regional cooperation and address security challenges collaboratively. The AFP's efforts reflect a broader commitment to strengthening international policing partnerships and ensuring that training and security measures are both effective and financially sustainable. By promoting these initiatives at the UN summit, Australia aims to play a pivotal role in shaping global policing strategies and enhancing regional security frameworks. The outcomes of these discussions are anticipated to have significant implications for international peacekeeping operations and the future of regional security collaborations.