"A big challenge in human and professional terms"

Marco X, 40, wanted to develop professionally and make a contribution to peacebuilding. He will long remember the investigations he conducted as a member of a multicultural team during his deployment.

During my one-year deployment in Kosovo I took part in a number of operations that resulted in several people being arrested and brought to justice. I also built up a valuable professional network and made some friends.

What memories and experiences have you gained from your deployment?

It was a real pleasure to work in a multicultural team that worked together to bring investigations to a successful conclusion.

What advice would you give someone about to be deployed?

Be adaptable and have a dose of humility, seek contact with local people and learn about the culture of the country where you are deployed. I would also recommend inviting family members or friends to visit you in the country if it's possible to do so.

What did you do in your free time?

I travelled around Kosovo and neighbouring countries. I discovered the diversity of the Balkans and was impressed by the hospitality of the people I met.  I also trained in a karate school in Kosovo's capital, Pristina.