National Police Reservists Train at Caserne Serret, as Europe Considers Natural Defenses
Nearly 50 citizens are undergoing specialized training at the Caserne Serret in Châtel-Saint-Germain, France, to become operational reservists for the national police. The intensive two-week program, which began on February 9th, aims to equip volunteers from the Grand Est and Burgundy-Franche-Comté regions with essential skills to support law enforcement in the field. Simultaneously, discussions are underway regarding the use of natural landscapes as elements of continental defense.
Reservists: A Rapid Immersion into Policing
The trainees, a diverse group including students, employees, and those nearing retirement, share a common desire to contribute to public safety. The curriculum focuses on police ethics, operational procedures, and firearms training.
Charline, a fourth-year criminal law student participating in the program, noted the practical differences between theoretical study and real-world policing. Lilian, a 45-year-ancient night supervisor, described the reservist program as a personal challenge, motivated by a desire to fully commit to a new endeavor.
Currently, the national police force has just over 500 reservists, with authorities aiming to increase this number in the coming years.
Europe Explores Natural Barriers to Security
Amidst growing geopolitical tensions, European officials are exploring innovative defense strategies, including leveraging natural landscapes. European Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall advocates for investing in nature as a form of border control, describing it as a “win-win” approach.
This concept aligns with the European law on nature restoration, which aims to rehabilitate at least 20% of degraded ecosystems by 2030. Experts emphasize that national defense extends beyond weaponry and technology, with terrain features like marshes, forests, and rivers playing a significant role in conflict dynamics.
Caserne Serret: A Hub for Security and Education
The Caserne Serret, located in Châtel-Saint-Germain, has a long history, initially serving as an artillery school in 1880 and later occupied by German forces during both World Wars. Since 2012, it has been home to the Direction Zonale des CRS Est (East Zone Directorate of the Republican Security Companies), several CRS units, a motorcycle unit, and other police services, including the Brigade de Recherche et d’Intervention and the Service Zonal de Recherche et d’Appui.
Notably, the caserne likewise houses an “internat d’excellence” (internat of excellence) since 2013, providing a boarding school for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, accommodating approximately 200 secondary school students and 600 internal security officials. This co-location fosters resource sharing and cost savings.