ABSTRACT
The complex acculturation process must be entered into with the assumption that perceived slights or insults would be based on cultural misinterpretation, rather than on an intent to harm. Developing a core skill set of being able to express oneself in a culturally neutral manner allows the United Nations Police (UNPOL) officer to meet new challenges and new cultural paradigms on a non-confrontational basis, allowing for the development of trust and understanding which will ultimately facilitate positive relationships. The ability to resist getting wrapped up in the cultural dissonance, in the furtherance of understanding each other, is a key to success. People intuitively want to be within their own comfort zone; however, in a hyper-diverse environment one must expect that cultural dissonance and culturally uncomfortable situations will be encountered. The Bulgarian participant spoke about open-mindedness in the context of a successful UNPOL needing a willingness to change and adapt.
