The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Benin, with financial support from the U.S. Department of State, organized a feedback workshop on July 4, 2023, to discuss the results of a full-scale crisis simulation exercise known as SIMEX. The workshop took place in Parakou and focused on reviewing the SIMEX exercise report, which was conducted on December 15, 2022.
The event brought together officials from various decentralized services in Parakou with the aim of validating the overall report of the first local-level SIMEX exercise. Participants discussed the lessons learned from the exercise and made recommendations to further integrate SIMEX exercises into crisis preparedness and response in Benin.
The workshop and the SIMEX exercise are part of the program “Engaging Border Communities in Border Security and Management: From Senegal to Benin.” This program is funded by the U.S. Department of State and aims to promote best practices in community policing by strengthening the relationship between administrative and security authorities and the communities.
It is worth noting that the first SIMEX exercise in Benin mobilized nearly 350 participants. An observation team was also present, consisting of representatives from central and decentralized government structures, international and non-governmental organizations, as well as mayors from the ten program intervention communes.
These initiatives build on the engagement of local communities in border security and management. They reflect the belief that active participation of border communities can play a decisive role in preventing and managing crises. By promoting a participatory approach, IOM Benin and the U.S. Department of State hope to enhance border security and promote more effective and inclusive border management.
