Model UN Background Guide

Committee: SPECPOL (GA4)
Topic: Peacekeeping Reform
Conference Year: 2025

Topic Background

United Nations peacekeeping has been a central tool for maintaining international peace and security since the first mission in 1948. Over the decades, peacekeeping operations (PKOs) have evolved from lightly armed observer missions to complex multidimensional operations involving military, police, and civilian components addressing political, humanitarian, and human rights challenges. However, peacekeeping has faced persistent criticism regarding effectiveness, efficiency, mandate clarity, and resource allocation.

The call for peacekeeping reform has intensified in recent years due to several factors: the increasing complexity of conflicts (including asymmetric warfare and terrorism), growing demands on peacekeepers to protect civilians and support state-building, and challenges such as troop-contributing countries’ (TCCs) uneven capabilities and political will. Additionally, peacekeeping missions have been scrutinized for allegations of misconduct, including sexual exploitation and abuse, undermining the credibility of the UN.

The agenda for peacekeeping reform is particularly relevant in 2025 due to the evolving geopolitical landscape, emerging security threats, and the upcoming comprehensive review of peace operations mandated by the UN General Assembly. Member states are debating how to enhance rapid deployment, improve mandate implementation, increase accountability, and better align peacekeeping with broader UN peacebuilding and development efforts.

Key Actors

• United States: Traditionally a major financial contributor and political influencer in peacekeeping reform, the US advocates for more efficient, accountable, and results-oriented operations. It often emphasizes the need for clear mandates and robust rules of engagement but is cautious about expanding peacekeeping commitments without clear national interests.

• Russia and China: Both permanent Security Council members have significant influence over peacekeeping mandates. Russia tends to emphasize state sovereignty and non-interference, often skeptical of mandates perceived as overreaching. China has increased its role as a troop contributor and financial supporter, advocating for reforms that enhance operational capacity while respecting host state consent.

• Troop-Contributing Countries (TCCs): Countries from Africa (e.g., Ethiopia, Rwanda, Nigeria), Asia (e.g., Bangladesh, India, Pakistan), and Latin America (e.g., Argentina, Uruguay) provide the majority of peacekeepers. These states seek reforms that improve training, equipment, and compensation, as well as better recognition of their contributions and burdens.

• UN Secretariat and Department of Peace Operations (DPO): Responsible for planning, managing, and supporting peacekeeping missions, the DPO pushes for reforms that streamline command structures, enhance rapid deployment capabilities, and integrate political and development efforts.

• Regional Organizations: The African Union (AU), European Union (EU), and others play complementary roles in peacekeeping and are key partners in reform discussions, often advocating for stronger collaboration between the UN and regional bodies.

Bloc Positions

• Western States (e.g., EU members, Canada, Australia): Generally support reforms aimed at improving accountability, transparency, and effectiveness. They emphasize human rights, protection of civilians, and zero tolerance for misconduct. Western states often push for enhanced training and technological upgrades.

• African and Global South TCCs: Prioritize practical support such as increased funding, better equipment, and improved welfare for peacekeepers. They advocate for mandates that respect sovereignty and avoid mission creep. Many African states call for more African-led peacekeeping initiatives and stronger partnerships with the UN.

• BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa): This bloc supports reforms that balance operational effectiveness with respect for state sovereignty. They emphasize political solutions and often caution against overly ambitious mandates. China and Russia, in particular, resist reforms that could undermine Security Council authority or impose external political agendas.

• Middle Eastern and Non-Aligned States: Positions vary widely, but many stress the importance of impartiality and neutrality in peacekeeping. Some express concerns about politicization of missions and advocate for reforms that enhance consent and cooperation with host governments.

Past UN Action

• Resolution 2156 (2014): Called for strengthening the partnership between the UN and regional organizations in peacekeeping.
• Resolution 2378 (2017): Established the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations (C-34) review process for comprehensive peacekeeping reform.
• Resolution 2446 (2018): Emphasized the protection of civilians and the need for clear, achievable mandates.
• Resolution 2538 (2020): Focused on enhancing rapid deployment capabilities and improving the performance of peacekeeping missions.
• Reports by the UN Secretary-General: Regular reports on peacekeeping reform provide assessments and recommendations, including the 2015 "Peacekeeping 2020" vision and subsequent updates.

Questions a Resolution Should Answer

1. How can the UN improve the rapid deployment and logistical support of peacekeeping missions to respond more effectively to emerging crises?
2. What measures should be taken to enhance the accountability and conduct of peacekeepers, particularly regarding sexual exploitation and abuse?
3. How can mandates be structured to balance robust protection of civilians with respect for host state sovereignty?
4. In what ways can the UN strengthen partnerships and coordination with regional organizations in peacekeeping?
5. What reforms are needed to ensure adequate training, equipment, and welfare for troop-contributing countries?
6. How can peacekeeping operations better integrate political, development, and peacebuilding efforts to achieve sustainable peace?
7. What mechanisms can be introduced to improve transparency and oversight in peacekeeping financing and resource allocation?

Further Reading

• UN Documents: Official reports and resolutions from the General Assembly, Security Council, and the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations (C-34) provide authoritative insight into ongoing reform efforts and member state positions. These include Secretary-General reports on peacekeeping operations and implementation reviews.

• Think-Tank Reports: Research institutions such as the International Peace Institute (IPI), the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), and the Center on International Cooperation (CIC) regularly publish detailed analyses on peacekeeping challenges, reform proposals, and case studies of specific missions.

• News Outlets: Reputable international news sources like the BBC, Al Jazeera, and Reuters offer up-to-date coverage of peacekeeping developments, controversies, and geopolitical dynamics influencing reform debates, providing context and diverse perspectives on current events.

This background guide aims to equip delegates with a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding peacekeeping reform, enabling informed debate and constructive resolution drafting in SPECPOL.