The UN Security Council, with India as a co-sponsor, has called for action against those targeting peacekeepers and endorsed involving troop-contributing nations in investigations when their nationals are victims. The resolution highlighted that assaults on peacekeepers or their facilities could constitute war crimes and urged all conflict parties to fully adhere to their responsibilities to UN personnel. Over 150 countries, including India, co-sponsored the resolution, underscoring global apprehension regarding peacekeepers’ safety.
The resolution acknowledged the sacrifice of peacekeepers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the cause of peace. It urged countries contributing troops and police to voluntarily deploy trained investigative personnel to aid host nations in examining cases of violence against UN personnel. Denmark’s permanent representative, Christina Markus Lassen, emphasized that the resolution, sponsored primarily by Denmark and Pakistan, conveyed a stern warning to perpetrators that the international community is vigilant and crimes will not go unpunished.
The unanimous backing for the resolution provided reassurance to peacekeepers that the Council stands with them and assured contributing countries that the Council is prepared to intervene when necessary. The resolution tasked Secretary-General Antonio Guterres with maintaining clear factual records of peacekeeper attacks and mandated cooperation from involved countries and other relevant entities in investigations. Guterres was also directed to present a report to the Council within 120 days on the progress of inquiries into peacekeeper attacks.
India, with 4,264 peacekeepers currently deployed, is particularly focused on safeguarding peacekeepers. In 2022, India initiated the Group of Friends to Promote Accountability for Crimes Against Peacekeepers to enhance their safety and demand accountability from assailants. During its 2021 Council membership, India sponsored a resolution, unanimously adopted, urging host countries of peacekeeping missions to ensure accountability for violence against peacekeepers by investigating incidents and prosecuting offenders.
