The Peacekeeping mission is a multidimensional, military-based UN operation that provides a safe and secure environment in which civilians can participate in a post-conflict political process. Peacekeeping missions are a core component of the UN’s Chapter VII powers and are designed to prevent or manage crises that threaten international peace and security. These operations are a response to violent conflicts that are unable or unwilling to reach an agreed-upon settlement through direct negotiations.
Each mission is guided by a specific mandate that dictates its tasks and the size of its force. These range from the limited, such as monitoring a ceasefire agreement, to the ambitious, such as overhauling a national government. The mandate also guides the role of military and police personnel in a mission, which can include policing and disarming warring factions, providing public services, facilitating refugee return, and building governance capacities.
It is not uncommon for several peacekeeping missions to be deployed in the same region at the same time. This requires a high level of coordination amongst the various elements of the mission, including local communities and local governments. The challenge is particularly acute where there are concerns about corruption and the use of peacekeeping missions by would-be spoilers to destabilize a country or region.
UN missions need to ensure that they remain sensitive to local fears and interests, especially when deploying in areas with high levels of violence. For this reason they need to have a robust and integrated approach to achieving their mandates, including through engagement with local populations and ensuring that the needs of women are fully considered.
About the Author
