UN Peace Ops must evolve to face modern threats – UN Chief's Briefing | United Nations

“Peace operations are designed not only to be an effective example of multilateralism in action — but a cost-effective one,” Secretary-General António Guterres said, urging reforms to confront global threats. Addressing the Security Council during an open debate today (Mar 24) António Guterres called for a critical overhaul of United Nations peace operations to ensure they remain effective amid rising global instability, warning that “terror and extremist groups, organized crime, the weaponization of new technologies, and the effects of climate change are all testing our capacities to respond.” Guterres also emphasized that UN peacekeeping must evolve to meet modern challenges. “Work is now underway to review all forms of peace operations,” he said, referencing Member States’ request under the Pact for the Future. “The review will aim to critically examine these tools and propose concrete recommendations to make them fit for today.” Guterres described the current geopolitical environment as increasingly fractured. “Geopolitical divisions are undermining peace… Violations of international law, human rights and the UN Charter are rampant - seemingly without consequence,” he said. “Trust is in short supply among - and within - countries and regions.” The review will draw on the New Agenda for Peace and incorporate a forthcoming comprehensive study on special political missions over the UN’s 80-year history. “Throughout, we will hold extensive consultations to capture as wide a spectrum of views as possible,” he added, citing engagement with host States, troop and police contributors, civil society, and UN leadership. Peace operations, Guterres stressed, are not only multilateral by design but cost-efficient. “At their best, they show how when the UN comes together to address challenges, the burden is diminished on individual countries alone.” Jenna Russo, Director of Research at the International Peace Institute, echoed calls for reform, urging the UN to foster a “risk tolerant culture” within missions. “Peacekeepers often feel the best they can do is keep their heads down and not make waves,” she said. “Personnel are structurally disincentivized from trying new things and reporting what doesn't work… for fear that their budgets and jobs may suffer consequences.” Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, presiding over the Council, underscored the continued importance of peacekeeping despite its flaws. “For millions, the blue flag and the blue helmet are symbols of hope,” he said. “To the families sheltering in an IDP camp in the Democratic Republic of Congo, they mean protection; to the communities affected by climate change in South Sudan, it means support; to the women and girls facing persecution in Afghanistan, the blue flag means inclusion.”


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