Understanding Peacekeeping
Definition
Peacekeeping
Peacekeeping is a critical tool in international relations, designed to maintain peace and security in regions affected by conflict. It involves the deployment of multinational forces to stabilize areas, support ceasefires, and create conditions for lasting peace.
Note
- Peacekeeping is not limited to military operations
- It often includes civilian and police components to address humanitarian needs, rebuild institutions, and promote human rights.
The Evolution of Peacekeeping
- Traditional Peacekeeping (1940s–1980s)
- Focused on monitoring ceasefires and buffering between warring parties.
- Operated under the principles of consent, impartiality, and non-use of force except in self-defense.
- Multidimensional Peacekeeping (1990s–Present)
- Expanded to include peacebuilding, democratization, and humanitarian assistance.
- Examples include missions in Bosnia, Rwanda, and East Timor.
- Robust Peacekeeping
- Allows for the use of force to protect civilians and ensure mission mandates.
- Seen in operations like the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).
Example
- The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is a classic example of traditional peacekeeping, established in 1978 to monitor the withdrawal of Israeli forces and maintain peace along the Israel-Lebanon border.
Key Principles of Peacekeeping
- Consent of the Parties
- Peacekeeping operations require the consent of the host country and conflicting parties.
- This ensures legitimacy and cooperation but can limit effectiveness if consent is withdrawn.
- Impartiality
- Peacekeepers must remain neutral, treating all parties fairly.
- This does not mean inaction, peacekeepers can intervene to protect civilians or enforce mandates.
- Non-Use of Force (Except in Self-Defense)
- Force is used only to protect peacekeepers, civilians, or the mission mandate.
- Robust peacekeeping allows for more proactive use of force in volatile environments.
Tip
- When analyzing peacekeeping missions, consider how these principles are applied or challenged in specific contexts.
- This can reveal strengths and weaknesses in the operation.
Types of Peacekeeping Operations
- Traditional Peacekeeping
- Focuses on monitoring ceasefires and separating warring parties.
- Example: UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP).
- Multidimensional Peacekeeping
- Involves peacebuilding, elections, and institution-building.
- Example: United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
- Robust Peacekeeping
- Allows for the use of force to protect civilians and enforce mandates.
- Example: MONUSCO in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Example
- The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) is a multidimensional peacekeeping operation that supported disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) of former combatants, as well as the rebuilding of state institutions.
Challenges and Criticisms of Peacekeeping
- Lack of Resources
- Many missions suffer from insufficient funding, equipment, and personnel.
- Complex Mandates
- Multidimensional missions often have broad and ambitious mandates that are difficult to achieve.
- Political Constraints
- Peacekeeping operations are often limited by the political will of member states and the UN Security Council.
- Impartiality vs. Inaction
- Maintaining impartiality can lead to inaction in the face of atrocities or violations.
Note
- The failure of the UN to prevent the 1994 Rwandan genocide is a stark reminder of the limitations of peacekeeping when mandates are weak and resources are lacking.
Case study
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)
- Background
- Established in 2011 to support the newly independent state of South Sudan.
- Mandate includes protecting civilians, facilitating humanitarian aid, and supporting peace processes.
- Challenges
- Ongoing civil conflict and ethnic violence.
- Limited resources and logistical difficulties in a vast, remote region.
- Successes and Criticisms
- Successes: Protection of civilians in UN camps, support for peace agreements.
- Criticisms: Inability to prevent violence outside protected areas, strained relations with the South Sudanese government.
Self review
- What are the key principles of peacekeeping, and how do they apply to specific missions?
- How have peacekeeping operations evolved over time to address new challenges?
- What are the main criticisms of peacekeeping, and how can they be addressed?
The Future of Peacekeeping
- Adapting to New Threats
- Peacekeeping must evolve to address asymmetric warfare, terrorism, and cyber threats.
- Strengthening Partnerships
- Collaboration with regional organizations like the African Union and European Union is essential for effective operations.
- Enhancing Accountability
- Addressing issues of misconduct and improving transparency are critical for maintaining credibility.
Theory of Knowledge
- How do cultural perspectives influence the design and implementation of peacekeeping missions?
- Consider how different societies prioritize stability, justice, and human rights.
