Field Exercise in Stability Operations

FIELDEX 2010:

Tufts University's 2nd Annual Field Exercise in Stability Operations

April 16-17, 2010

This year's FIELDEX revolves around provincial elections in a post-conflict environment.  

Two years ago, terrorist attacks were perpetrated by an international terrorist organization. In response, the international community declared war on that organization and authorized military force to enter Country X, which had become a safe haven for the organization. International security forces quickly decapitated much of the network, although elements remain.

The coalition subsequently began post-conflict stability operations, seeking to construct a democratic, central government and develop basic infrastructure. However, reconstruction has been haphazard and national government and security forces are seen as both corrupt and ineffective, leading many citizens to depend on a domestic insurgent group for services and security.

The insurgency is fueled by grievances with the national government and the perceived inability of the international community to build a stable government and economy. Residual terrorist leadership has co-opted the insurgent network and exchanged tactics and resources. Terrorist attacks have risen in the lead-up to upcoming provincial elections, around which the exercise will be staged.

Participants will role play one of several roles:

• Coalition Forces (CF)
• Host Nation Security Forces (HNSF)
• Insurgents
• United Nations Assistance Mission (UNAM) - election monitoring commission and humanitarian aid workers
• Media journalists
• Villagers - political candidates, tribal elders, and village members

Will the CF and HNSF be able to provide security and stabilize the area?  Will UNAM's election monitoring commission ensure a free and fair election? Will villagers be able to have their voices heard and their grievances met?  Or will the insurgent forces ultimately prove successful?

For Prospective Participants

Fee

1. There is a $25 fee for participants playing Coalition Forces (CF) , Host Nation Security Forces (HNSF) , and insurgents to help offset equipment rental costs.  

2. There is a $15 fee for participants role-playing civilian actors. 

3. All fees must be paid in full for your participation to be confirmed.  Further details will be provided.

Participant Selection

We will do our best to accommodate everyone interested in the FIELDEX as well as everybody's first choices.  

However, because of the limited number of spaces, priority will be given to students who have not participated in past FIELDEX and who can demonstrate compelling reasons for participation.

Students marking civilian actors, such as United Nations Assistance Mission (UNAM), journalists, and villagers, as their first choices are more likely to be selected.

Time Commitment

1. CF, HNSF, and insurgents should be prepared to depart Tufts around 4pm on Friday, April 16.

2. Civilian actors will depart Tufts in the morning of Saturday, April 17.

3. Please note that certain roles, such as CF, may require further pre-trip preparation, such as the assignment of reading.

 All photos courtesy Joanie Tobin/Tufts Photo.