Military Wednesday – United Nations Peacekeeping

Peacekeeping by the United Nations is a role held by the Department of Peacekeeping Operations as “a unique and dynamic instrument developed by the Organization as a way to help countries torn by conflict create the conditions for lasting peace”. It is distinguished from both peacebuilding and peacemaking.

Peacekeepers monitor and observe peace processes in post-conflict areas and assist ex-combatants in implementing the peace agreements they may have signed. Such assistance comes in many forms, including confidence-building measures, power-sharing arrangements, electoral support, strengthening the rule of law, and economic and social development.