UN PEACEKEEPING: THE "BLUE HELMETS" AND GLOBAL SECURITY ARCHITECTURE

Why In News?

India has strongly condemned the recent attacks on UN peacekeepers deployed in southern Lebanon.

What is UN Peacekeeping?

United Nations (UN) Peacekeeping helps countries transition from conflict to peace by deploying troops, police, and civilian personnel from around the world.

The "Blue Helmets": Established in 1948, Peacekeepers include soldiers, police officers, and civilian personnel. They are easily identified by their iconic blue helmets or berets.

Legal Basis: While not explicitly mentioned in the UN Charter, peacekeeping falls between Chapter VI (Pacific Settlement of Disputes) and Chapter VII (Actions with respect to threats to peace).

Command and Control: Missions are deployed by the UN Security Council (UNSC), while the Department of Peace Operations (DPO) directs them from New York. 

The Three Basic Principles

To maintain legitimacy, all UN peacekeeping operations must adhere to three "bedrock" principles: 

1. Consent of the Parties: Missions require the agreement of the main parties to the conflict.
2. Impartiality: Peacekeepers must be even-handed in their dealings with the parties to the conflict.
3. Non-use of Force: Force is permitted only in self-defense and defense of the mandate.

India and UN Peacekeeping 

Troop Contribution: India is currently among the top three troop-contributing countries, with over 6,000 personnel deployed across 10 missions.

Historic "Firsts": India deployed the first all-female police unit to a UN mission in Liberia (UNMIL) in 2007.

Sacrifice: India has lost more peacekeepers in the line of duty than any other nation, with over 180 bravehearts making the ultimate sacrifice.

Technological Leadership: India launched the UNITE AWARE platform—a situational awareness software—to provide terrain-related information and enhance the safety of peacekeepers.

Challenges Facing Modern Missions

Asymmetric Warfare: Peacekeepers are increasingly targeted by non-state actors and terrorists, moving away from traditional state-vs-state conflicts.

Mandate Creep: Missions are often given over-ambitious goals (e.g., nation-building, human rights monitoring) without sufficient funding or personnel.

Funding Crisis: The peacekeeping budget is separate from the UN regular budget. Major delays in payments by member states often hamper operations.

Legitimacy Issues: Instances of sexual exploitation and abuse by some peacekeepers have severely damaged the UN’s reputation in host countries. 

Way Forward 

Specialized Pre-Deployment Training

Robust, terrain-specific training is crucial. India's Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK) in New Delhi is a global benchmark, having trained thousands of Indian and foreign personnel in skills before deployment.

Integration of Advanced Technology

The UN must ensure equitable distribution of modern technology like observation drones, early-warning radar systems, and Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected (MRAP) vehicles to all contingents.

Inclusive Mandate Formulation

The UN Security Council must involve major TCCs like India in the mandate-drafting process. The old model of Western nations designing missions and Global South nations providing troops is no longer viable.

Strict Enforcement of Accountability

The international community must enforce UNSC Resolution 2589 by imposing sanctions on state and non-state actors who target UN personnel.

Conclusion

India’s UN Peacekeeping role reflects Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, strengthening its bid for a permanent UNSC seat. While its sustained contribution is a key credential, the sensitive debate over transitioning from "peacekeeping" to "peace enforcement" will define the Blue Helmets' future.

Source: ANINEWS