GS-2:Important International Institutions, agencies and fora – their Structure, Mandate.

In News:Who are the UN peacekeepers at Lebanon’s border with Israel?

1.What are the key challenges faced by United Nations Peacekeeping Forces (UNPKF) in effectively maintaining peace and security in conflict zones, and how can these be addressed to enhance their operational effectiveness in contemporary global conflicts?

United Nations Peacekeeping Forces (UNPKF) play a crucial role in maintaining peace and security in conflict-ridden regions.The recent Israeli attacks on United Nations peacekeepers in Lebanon exemplify the challenges faced by the UNPKF in maintaining peace and security.

Key challenges of UNPKF:
1.Strategic challenges:
● Leadership and coordination: Ineffective leadership and poor coordination among various UN bodies and troop-contributing countries hinder mission effectiveness.
● Political support: Insufficient backing from the UN Security Council leads to unclear mandates and inadequate resources.

2. Operational challenges
   ● Resource constraints: Limited personnel, equipment, and funding impact response capabilities.
   ● Complex environments: Navigating volatile situations with non-state actors complicates traditional roles.
3. Tactical challenges
   ● Rules of engagement: Ambiguities can lead to hesitance in using necessary force.
   ● Host nation relations: Cooperation with reluctant local governments poses challenges.
4. Social and cultural challenges
   ● Community relations: Building trust is difficult if peacekeepers are perceived as outsiders.
   ● Gender dynamics: Integrating gender perspectives can create complex interpersonal dynamics.

Recommendations for enhancement

1. Strengthening leadership and coordination
   ● Implement training programs to improve management skills.
   ● Foster collaboration among UN bodies, troop-contributing countries, and local stakeholders.
2. Resource mobilisation
   ● Advocate for increased funding from member states.
   ● Develop partnerships with regional organisations for shared resources.
3. Clarifying mandates and rules of engagement
   ● Ensure mandates are clear, actionable, and adaptable.
   ● Regularly review rules of engagement based on lessons learned.
4. Community engagement strategies
   ● Conduct assessments to tailor approaches that foster trust.
   ● Engage local actors in planning and implementation phases.
5. Integrating gender perspectives
   ● Incorporate gender analysis into mission planning.
   ● Promote recruitment of women to enhance community relations.
6. Utilizing technology
   ● Advanced technology, such as drones and satellite imagery, can be used to improve situational awareness and enhance security

By addressing these challenges through strategic reforms, operational improvements, and enhanced community engagement, UNPKF can significantly improve their effectiveness in maintaining peace and security in conflict zones.

PYQ

1. Terrorism has become a significant threat to global peace and security.’ Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council’s Counter Terrorism Committee (CTC) and its associated bodies in addressing and mitigating this threat at the international level. 2024
2. What are the main functions of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)? Explain different functional commissions attached to it.2017

Source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/who-are-the-un-peacekeepers-at-lebanons-border-with-israel-9615962/