Operational Detention Forum 2026 will focus on the theme: “Exploring the Fields of Operational Detention as a Comprehensive Approach.”
The event aims to bring together civilian and military stakeholders as well as subject matter experts involved in Captured Persons (CPERS), Prisoners of War (POW), and detention operations. It will provide a platform for exchanging perspectives, addressing current challenges, and strengthening coordination, interoperability, and professional cooperation across NATO and partner networks.
Recognizing that detention operations extend far beyond Military Police capabilities alone, the forum will gather representatives from humanitarian organizations, NGOs, operational planning staffs, legal services, intelligence communities, logistics, medical support, engineering, CIMIC, STRATCOM, and other relevant functional areas. Discussions will address a broad spectrum of CPERS/POW-related topics, including legal frameworks, logistics, HUMINT, intelligence support, medical aspects, strategic communications, and lessons learned from recent operations and exercises.
The forum will serve as a platform to exchange best practices, identify operational challenges, and explore innovative solutions for detention operations in a multinational environment. Particular attention will be given to enhancing cooperation among NATO entities, Host Nation structures, Troop Contributing Nations, and relevant civilian organizations, while also sharing operational experiences and developments related to detention concepts, procedures, and capabilities.
This year’s edition will take place in Sopot, Poland, near Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport, offering participants convenient international access and an excellent setting for professional dialogue, networking, and cooperation.