Is Bringing Attackers of UN Peacekeepers to Justice a 'Strategic Necessity'?
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Synopsis
India's Permanent Representative to the UN emphasizes the urgent need for accountability in attacks against peacekeepers, calling it a 'strategic necessity.' With increasing violence against peacekeepers, justice is vital to ensure their safety and the success of peace operations worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- Accountability is crucial for the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping missions.
- India plays a significant role in promoting justice for peacekeepers.
- Over 1,135 peacekeepers have been killed, highlighting the urgent need for action.
- The Friends Group aims to enhance international cooperation.
- Justice for peacekeepers is a shared global responsibility.
United Nations, July 15 (NationPress) Ensuring that those who attack peacekeepers are held accountable is a strategic necessity for the effectiveness of UN operations, stated India’s Permanent Representative P. Harish.
He emphasized India's unwavering commitment, asserting, "United Nations peacekeepers encounter significant challenges while operating in increasingly perilous regions. Yet, the majority of these crimes remain unpunished."
The absence of accountability for attacks against peacekeepers "greatly weakens international peace initiatives by instilling greater confidence in the perpetrators," he remarked on Tuesday.
"Thus, accountability is a strategic necessity," he affirmed.
"The safety of peacekeepers is directly enhanced through justice, enabling them to execute their crucial missions," he added. "It is our collective responsibility to meet this obligation."
He made these remarks during a session of the 'Group of Friends to Promote Accountability for Crimes Against Peacekeepers'.
India initiated this group in December 2022 while holding the presidency of the Security Council and continues to serve as co-chair.
Senior representatives from around 40 nations, UN officials, and experts engaged in discussions on enhancing strategies, operational frameworks, and fostering international collaboration to ensure that perpetrators of crimes against peacekeepers are brought to justice.
The attendees "emphasized the urgent need to combat impunity for assaults on peacekeepers, highlighting that accountability is not just about justice for individuals, but is foundational for the effectiveness, credibility, and future of UN Peace Operations globally," as stated by India’s UN Mission.
To date, 1,135 peacekeepers have lost their lives due to criminal activities against peacekeeping efforts, with five fatalities reported this year alone.
The Friends Group builds upon a resolution introduced by India, supported by 83 countries, which was unanimously approved by the Security Council in 2021.
This resolution calls for nations hosting peacekeeping missions to promote accountability for violence against peacekeepers by investigating incidents and prosecuting offenders. It also directs the Secretary-General to establish an online database of assaults on peacekeeping personnel.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the efforts of India in promoting accountability for crimes against UN peacekeepers. The ongoing discussions and initiatives underscore the importance of justice in maintaining peace and security on a global scale, reinforcing the collective responsibility of nations to protect those who risk their lives for international peace.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is accountability important for peacekeepers?
Accountability for crimes against peacekeepers is essential as it ensures justice, enhances the safety of those serving in conflict zones, and upholds the integrity of UN Peace Operations.
What has India done to promote accountability?
India launched the 'Group of Friends to Promote Accountability for Crimes Against Peacekeepers' in December 2022 and continues to co-chair this initiative to strengthen international cooperation in ensuring justice.
How many peacekeepers have died in the line of duty?
As of now, 1,135 peacekeepers have lost their lives due to criminal actions against peacekeeping operations, including five fatalities this year.
