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During a recent briefing for ambassadors at the Security Council, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the chief of Peace Operations, underscored the critical role UN Police play in maintaining peace, especially in the face of escalating organized crime, corruption, human rights abuses, and institutional weaknesses.
“Every entity represented in this chamber – from Member States and Council members to host nations and contributors of military, police, and financial resources – has a vested interest in the effectiveness of peacekeeping missions,” he remarked.
He noted that the current global climate poses significant challenges to multilateralism, emphasizing the need for ongoing commitment to ensure that peacekeeping continues to adapt and respond effectively to contemporary challenges.
Addressing Operational Gaps
Lacroix observed that the disparity between peacekeeping mandates and actual operational conditions has widened. Fortunately, initiatives like the Action for Peacekeeping (A4P+ initiative) are helping bridge this gap, enhancing the functionality of police components in UN operations.
For example, in the Central African Republic (CAR), UN Police are actively working to fortify national security forces, aiming to protect civilians and enforce the rule of law. In the contested region of Abyei, they have played a significant role in developing strategies to bolster governance and uphold the rule of law amid ongoing challenges between Sudan and South Sudan.
The UN continues to focus on improving police training and operational strategies. A revamped UN Police Commanders Course was recently piloted in Nairobi, Kenya, and in collaboration with the Elsie Initiative, efforts have been made to create more gender-sensitive living arrangements in field missions, promoting increased participation of women.
Advancements in Technology
Lacroix also emphasized the vital role of technology and innovation in enhancing peacekeeping efforts, improving situational awareness, and streamlining coordination among various missions. He stated, “With the support of A4P+, we are positioned better than ever to tackle contemporary challenges and positively impact the lives of those we serve. This calls for increased investment in police training, capacity-building, and resources.
Making Meaningful Changes
UN Police Adviser Faisal Shahkar highlighted the profound impact that UN Police initiatives have had on local communities by fostering capacity building and reinforcing the rule of law. In South Sudan, for instance, the UNMISS Police, with the specialized assistance of the UN Standing Police Capacity, has implemented a comprehensive election security support strategy, providing crucial technical guidance to bolster security for upcoming national elections.
Shahkar also pointed out capacity-building programs designed for South Sudanese women officers, aimed at preparing them for leadership roles within the police forces.
Challenges of Misinformation
Despite these achievements, building trust among UN missions, local governments, and populations continues to be a significant hurdle, exacerbated by issues of misinformation and disinformation, Shahkar noted. He remarked, “While our presence may be more limited now compared to my last briefing in November 2023, the responsibilities of UN Police remain complex and demanding,” urging Member States to maintain active leadership and political engagement.
Real-World Impacts
In addition to Lacroix’s comments, ambassadors received updates from leaders of police components in UN peacekeeping operations, including the Central African Republic’s MINUSCA and Cyprus’s UNFICYP.
Commissioner Christophe Bizimungu discussed MINUSCA’s proactive policing initiatives aimed at enhancing security in preparation for the 2025 elections, particularly focusing on safeguarding against electoral violence targeting women. Moreover, they are addressing rising incidents of hate crimes affecting the Muslim community in Haut Mbomou, where armed groups are increasingly active, as well as managing conflicts related to seasonal livestock farming through specialized units.
Xu Mingzhu, the Senior Police Adviser for UNFICYP, highlighted the mission’s role in fostering conflict prevention and building trust through strengthened cooperation between the Republic of Cyprus Police and the Turkish Cypriot Police. The mission facilitates information sharing through joint efforts, ensuring the safety of the buffer zone while supporting civilian activities.
Source
news.un.org