India has long been a significant contributor to United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions. Recently, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting Global South nations in enhancing their peacekeeping capacities. This commitment includes training and capacity-building initiatives, particularly for women peacekeepers. India’s extensive involvement in peacekeeping reflects its dedication to maintaining international peace and security.
Understanding UN Peacekeeping Missions
UN peacekeeping missions involve military and police personnel voluntarily provided by member states. These forces operate under the UN flag, wearing their national uniforms along with UN identifiers. Their primary responsibilities include protecting civilians, preventing conflicts, and empowering local authorities. The use of force is restricted to self-defense or the execution of their mandate and is typically considered a last resort.
A Brief History of UN Peacekeeping Operations
Since its inception in 1948, the UN has launched over 71 peacekeeping missions worldwide. The first such mission, the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), was created to monitor the armistice between Israel and its Arab neighbors. Today, more than 100,000 personnel from 125 countries serve in 14 active peacekeeping operations, showcasing the global commitment to maintaining peace.
Funding and Contributions
The financial backing of UN peacekeeping missions is a collective responsibility, with the UN Security Council overseeing operations. The largest financial contributors are the United States and China, accounting for 26.95% and 18.69% of the budget, respectively. India contributes about 0.2088%. Troop-contributing nations receive reimbursements from the UN at a standard rate per soldier per month, ensuring sustainability in peacekeeping operations.
India’s Role in UN Peacekeeping
India has played a crucial role in UN peacekeeping, deploying over 290,000 personnel since the 1950s. Presently, approximately 5,000 Indian peacekeepers are actively engaged in nine of the eleven ongoing missions. India’s participation not only strengthens its global reputation but also supports its aspirations for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.
Challenges and Criticisms of Peacekeeping
Despite the commendable efforts of peacekeeping forces, these missions face considerable scrutiny. Critics argue that troop distribution is often influenced by national interests rather than the genuine need for conflict resolution. Additionally, the high financial costs and the risks to personnel—179 Indian peacekeepers have lost their lives in service—raise concerns about the overall efficacy of these operations.
The Future of UN Peacekeeping Missions
The future of UN peacekeeping depends on the willingness of member states to adapt and reform. This includes addressing challenges in troop contributions, funding, and operational effectiveness. As global geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve, peacekeeping missions must innovate to respond effectively to emerging conflicts and humanitarian crises.
India remains steadfast in its commitment to peacekeeping, demonstrating its dedication to global stability and reinforcing its role as a key player in international diplomacy.