Mr. Guterres described the impetus that led him to launch the Action for the maintenance of peace (A4P) in March this year, citing the tragically high number of peacekeeping deaths he faced during his first months in office, and recommendations from subsequent meetings report“Improving the safety of United Nations peacekeepers.”
Peacekeepers face complex conflicts on the ground, stalled peace processes and a rise in transnational terrorism. But, Mr. Guterres said, one of the major challenges they face is the gap between aspirations and reality.
A4P aims to bridge this gap by refocusing peacekeeping with more realistic expectations in mind; make missions stronger and safer; mobilize more political support; and provide better equipment and training for “peacekeepers.”
The two fundamental aspirations of UN peace operations are greater pressure for political solutions, which enable mission success, and the protection of civilians. On this point, Mr. Guterres declared that “we can never forget the tragic consequences of our failures”.
This initiative, Mr. Guterres said, is already becoming a reality, with independently led reviews determining how the UN can better fulfill its mandates, including through more proactive and accountable missions; innovative approaches to training and equipment; and active measures to strengthen the role of women in peacekeeping.
Referring to allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse, Mr. Guterres said they were being responded to more quickly, with more support for victims; and that the UN is now more effective in its quest for justice.
Peacekeeping’s achievements, Mr. Guterres said, go far beyond peacekeeping: “Peacekeepers protect millions of displaced people and support the delivery of life-saving humanitarian assistance. Their presence sends a powerful message of international solidarity with the most vulnerable.”
But, the UN chief said, partnerships with regional and sub-regional organizations are essential if the UN is to achieve its goals. When it comes to counterterrorism or peace enforcement, African peace operations – including those mandated by the African Union – play a vital role.
The Secretary-General urged more countries to endorse the United Nations Declaration of Shared Commitments on Peacekeeping Operations. On Tuesday, it was endorsed by more than 146 governments, and it called for more support for UN peacekeeping operations, including predictable, adequate and sustainable funding, to prepare for peacekeeping in the future.
Thanking heads of state and government for their contributions, in terms of troops, police and funding; managers of peacekeeping mandates; and governments hosting peace missions, Mr. Guterres said that, with the Declaration providing a clear agenda for the peacekeeping community, now is the time to translate commitments into action.
Originally published at Almouwatin.com
