Leadership in International Security Course (LISC) 2025-2026

The 40^th edition of this highly competitive eight-month course in international security is designed for high- performing professionals seeking to enhance their careers and effectively respond to the world’s most pressing security challenges.  

Our approach is comprehensive and multifaceted. This course will not only update your knowledge, but will build your skillset and toolset to better prepare you to deal with our unpredictable international security environment.  

During the eight-month course you will have the opportunity to learn from and network with over 120 members of the GCSP’s global experts community, including high-level practitioners from governments, international institutions, non-governmental organisations, the private sector and civil society.

Learning objectives 

This course offers you a unique opportunity to: 

• Strengthen your leadership skillset in a multicultural and cross-sectoral environment,
• Acquire analytical tools to increase your effectiveness as a security policy practitioner,
• Enhance your ability to generate sustainable policy responses and solutions,
• Broaden your professional network of peace and security practitioners.

Modules

Open to mid-career professionals working in national ministries.  

Applications from IOs, NGOs, civil society, academia and the private sector will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

Candidates must have had exposure to peace and security issues. Serving officers must have completed an advanced military staff course.

The course is offered free of tuition charges for participants as part of Switzerland’s contribution to the Partnership for Peace Programme. 
The GCSP reserves the right to modify the programme dates, location and fee at any time.