The landscape of international peacekeeping is undergoing a transformation, with traditional, large-scale UN peacekeeping missions giving way to more focused and flexible approaches. This shift is exemplified by the conclusion of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Mali in 2023 and the upcoming conclusion of the mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in late 2024 [1e6d59a3]. These developments signal a move towards targeted and stabilization-focused operations, as there is a growing recognition that traditional peacekeeping missions have often failed to achieve lasting peace. The evolving nature of peacekeeping calls for innovative, context-sensitive, and locally engaged models [1e6d59a3].
One significant factor influencing the changing landscape of peacekeeping is the geopolitical dynamics within the UN Security Council. These dynamics have presented significant barriers to establishing new peacekeeping missions. As a result, regional and national actors are playing a larger role in conflict resolution, with a particular focus on regional and ad hoc coalition strategies [1e6d59a3]. Ad hoc coalitions have emerged as flexible alternatives to traditional peacekeeping, allowing for more tailored and responsive interventions. However, concerns remain regarding their long-term sustainability and accountability [1e6d59a3].
In order to adapt to these changes, a re-evaluation of the foundational principles of peacekeeping is necessary. Direct engagement with conflict-affected communities and African-led solutions are crucial. It is important for the international community to refrain from imposing Western principles and instead allow African states to shape peacekeeping initiatives [1e6d59a3]. By doing so, peacekeeping efforts can become more effective and responsive to the specific needs and concerns of conflict-affected communities. This reimagining of peacekeeping requires a new practice that is context-sensitive and locally driven [1e6d59a3].
Accord Insight 5, a publication by Conciliation Resources and the Institute of Development Studies, sheds light on the importance of peace and security for pastoralist communities in African borderlands, with a focus on Niger, Nigeria, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Uganda, and Kenya. The research conducted in 2022-23 highlights the impact of violence on these communities and emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to address their specific challenges [da750d8e]. The publication underscores the significance of understanding the dynamics and needs of pastoralist communities in conflict-affected areas and the importance of incorporating their perspectives and solutions into peacekeeping efforts. This aligns with the broader shift towards context-sensitive and locally driven peacekeeping models [1e6d59a3] [da750d8e].
The evolving landscape of peacekeeping requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account the unique challenges faced by different communities and regions. By focusing on targeted and stabilization-focused operations, engaging with conflict-affected communities, and incorporating African-led solutions, peacekeeping efforts can become more effective and sustainable. It is crucial for the international community to support and empower regional and national actors in their peacekeeping initiatives, while also ensuring transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability [1e6d59a3] [da750d8e].
India maintained its tradition as one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations in 2023. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India deployed the highest number of troops, with 5,901 troops sent to various peacekeeping missions worldwide. Nepal closely followed India, sending 5,878 troops. Bangladesh and Pakistan also emerged as significant contributors. The report highlighted three trends in multilateral peace operations: the impact of geopolitical rivalries, tensions between peace operations and host nations, and the regionalization of peace operations. Sub-Saharan Africa had the highest number of UN peacekeeping operations, with 24 missions deployed. New peacekeeping operations were initiated in Armenia, Moldova, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Peacekeeping operations were concluded in Mali, Sudan, and the Central African Republic (CAR) [b9d458f1].
UN Member States have been deploying "Blue Helmets" (or peacekeepers) since 1948. On the occasion of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, marked annually on 29 May, operations over the decades are spotlighted, from monitoring buffer zones in Asia to escorting aid trucks into Israeli exclaves in the Middle East. Some missions were accomplished, while others continue today. Since the Organization's inception at the end of the Second World War, UN Member States have deployed collective efforts to prevent global conflict and devastation. The goal is to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war by stepping in before tensions escalate past a point of no return [c7d988ec].
However, according to Under Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the world cannot rely solely on UN peacekeepers to stop wars [3e9c4eb6]. Lacroix emphasized that peacekeeping has its limits and that imposing peace is not part of the UN troops' mandate. He suggested that peace enforcement can be done in partnership with other groups. UN peacekeeping missions have faced criticism for failing to protect against armed extremists. Lacroix acknowledged the need for the UN to adapt but stated that turning UN troops into a war-fighting body is not realistic or desirable. He cited examples of enforcement being done by non-UN forces in Haiti and financial support for African Union peacekeeping operations authorized by the Security Council. Lacroix also mentioned cases where UN peacekeepers had to retreat due to complex situations. Overall, Lacroix emphasized the limitations of UN peacekeepers and the need for the international community to respond to a variety of situations [3e9c4eb6].