India Calls For UN Peacekeeping Reforms To Address Modern Conflict Challenges

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized that peacekeepers serving as buffers between warring states is no longer sufficient in today's complex conflict environments.

New Delhi:

On Thursday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called for a new paradigm for United Nations peacekeeping missions to effectively address the evolving nature of global conflicts and security challenges.

Jaishankar highlighted that modern peacekeepers must protect civilians, respond to humanitarian emergencies, and operate in environments where adversaries don't wear uniforms or follow conventional rules of engagement.

Speaking at a conference of troop-contributing countries' chiefs, Jaishankar advocated for a comprehensive reevaluation of peacekeeping operations as conflict dynamics have fundamentally transformed.

"Traditional state-versus-state warfare has given way to complex scenarios involving non-state actors, armed groups, and terrorist organizations, blurring previously clear lines of conflict," he stated.

The minister noted that the conventional peacekeeper role has undergone significant evolution over time.

"Today's peacekeepers face multifaceted responsibilities—protecting vulnerable civilians, addressing humanitarian crises, and operating in environments where enemies don't identify themselves or adhere to established protocols," Jaishankar explained.

"This challenging reality necessitates a new peacekeeping framework. We need enhanced training protocols, advanced technological solutions, and a fundamental reconsideration of mission mandates," he emphasized.

"Peacekeepers must be equipped to counter asymmetric threats, ensure their own security, while still fulfilling their mission objectives," Jaishankar added.

The minister also made a compelling case for comprehensive United Nations reform.

"UN members strongly desire a reformed United Nations, including expansion of both permanent and non-permanent Security Council membership categories," he stated.

"Unfortunately, the reform process itself is being manipulated to obstruct progress. Consequently, historical injustices continue to persist," the External Affairs Minister observed.

"India stands ready to assume greater responsibilities within a reformed United Nations framework and reformed multilateral system," he concluded.