Doha: For nearly eight decades, United Nations peacekeeping forces have played a vital role in supporting stability and protecting civilians in conflict zones around the world, helping countries move from violence toward peace. The world marks the International Day of UN Peacekeepers on May 29 each year, commemorating the establishment of the first UN peacekeeping mission in 1948. This year's observance is held under the theme "Invest in Peace."
According to Qatar News Agency, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that more than 50,000 UN peacekeepers are currently deployed in some of the world's most dangerous regions to protect civilians and support political solutions. He also paid tribute to nearly 4,500 peacekeepers who have lost their lives since 1948.
Commenting on this year's theme, Assistant Professor at the Department of International Affairs at Qatar University Dr. Abdullah Bandar Al Otaibi highlighted the difficult balance between military deterrence and investing in peace. He emphasized the importance of investing in conflict prevention and addressing the root causes of crises, such as poverty, discrimination, inequality, and injustice.
Dr. Al Otaibi also pointed out growing divisions within the UN Security Council, which have weakened the effectiveness of international peacekeeping efforts. He stressed the need for stronger international cooperation, clearer mandates, and increased support and resources for peacekeeping missions.
On the legal protection of peacekeepers, Dr. Al Otaibi noted that the 1994 Convention on the Safety of UN Personnel lacks effective accountability mechanisms, underlining the necessity for an international court specialized in crimes against peacekeepers.
Discussing the performance of peacekeeping missions in the Middle East, Dr. Al Otaibi expressed concern over Israeli violations against Palestinian people and the repeated attacks on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) without meaningful action from the UN.
Professor of International Affairs, Security and Defense at Qatar University Dr. Ali Bakir explained that Israel's willingness to target peacekeeping forces is due to its belief that violating international law carries no significant deterrent, especially with Western support. He emphasized the erosion of the international system's credibility and the need for a unified international political will for effective peacekeeping.
Despite criticism, Dr. Bakir acknowledged that UN peacekeeping missions remain crucial for conflict management, highlighting their role in protecting civilians, supporting ceasefire agreements, and facilitating humanitarian aid. However, he pointed to weaknesses such as limited mandates, insufficient funding, and geopolitical rivalries that hinder effective intervention.
Looking ahead, Dr. Bakir called for reforms in the UN Security Council, more flexible mandates, greater investment in technology and partnerships with local communities, and advanced training in human rights and crisis management. He stressed the importance of linking peacebuilding efforts to development by addressing poverty, marginalization, and corruption.