The IFPO requires that all programs that offer a certification must be maintained by the individual through a re-certification process.
Therefore the CPO certificate is valid for a period of two years, at which time re-certification must be achieved.
Qualified certified protection officers can also obtain the designation of CPO instructor.
[vague] After 1998, when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights defenders passed, many international and regional NGOs created a post for protection officers.
The post is for expertise in security and risk assessment officers who are responsible for safety of human rights defenders.