13/02/2026

Today, the Basic Training for drone operators was completed at the Agency for Education and Professional Training (AEPTM). The training was organised in cooperation with the Border Police of Bosnia and Herzegovina and with expert support from CIVIPOL, within the framework of the EU4FAST Project – EU Support to Strengthening the Fight Against Migrant Smuggling and Trafficking in Human Beings in the Western Balkans.

The training was conducted in accordance with a curriculum aligned by AEPTM with FRONTEX methodology. During the five-day training, 12 active border police officers completed the practical component using equipment (drones) donated by EU Member States, worth EUR 220,000. The training was delivered by a team of instructors from France.

On the occasion of signing the equipment donation agreement, the EU4FAST Project Manager on behalf of Civipol, Franck Fortin, emphasised that the drones would be used within a certified drone pilot training programme, fully integrated into the Agency’s official curriculum. “The EU4FAST Project contributes to enhanced border surveillance. Drones are a modern and effective tool when used by trained and responsible staff, within a clear legal framework,” Fortin stated.

During today’s ceremony, Fortin thanked the French colleagues for their cooperation, as well as the Agency’s leadership and all staff for the excellent organisation of the training. Congratulating the participants on successfully completing the course, he expressed his hope that they would apply the knowledge gained during the training once they return to their respective posts.

Before the certificates were awarded, the Director of the Agency for Education and Professional Training, Marko Vujević, also addressed those present. “First and foremost, I would like to congratulate the participants who had the honour of being the first to attend the basic drone operation training. The same training will begin next week with a new group of participants. I expect some of you to attend the advanced training that will follow the selection process, depending on the results you achieved in the basic training,” Vujević said, emphasising that the trainees have a technical responsibility to contribute to the stability and improvement of state border protection, particularly in combating trafficking in human beings and irregular migration, which is the fundamental purpose of the EU4FAST Project.