Crimes against peacekeepers: UN Security Council backs new steps on prosecutions

The UN Security Council unanimously passed a new resolution on Tuesday to improve justice for crimes against UN peacekeepers. UN figures showed nearly 1,100 peacekeepers have died on duty since 1948. Thousands more have been hurt. The text said few cases ended in prosecution, despite repeated attacks on peacekeeping staff.

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The resolution, backed by Pakistan and Denmark, was also co-sponsored by more than 150 countries. It aimed to close gaps in accountability after violence against peacekeepers. The measure authorised Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to ensure facts were gathered after future attacks. It also backed support for investigations and prosecutions of violent acts.

UN Security Council resolution on peacekeepers accountability

Denmark’s UN Ambassador Christina Lassen said the move signalled support for more than 50,000 personnel in missions worldwide. Lassen referred to deployments from Lebanon and Cyprus to South Sudan and Central African Republic. Lassen said attacks would not be ignored and offenders would face scrutiny. Lassen also pointed to the wider message for those behind such crimes.

"Attacks against them will not be met with silence or impunity.\"

\"To the perpetrators of any crimes, wherever and whoever they are, she said, it sends a firm message that the international community is watching, that crimes will not go unpunished, that accountability and justice will be pursued and will be upheld.\"

UN Security Council resolution highlights Pakistan and Denmark push

Pakistan’s UN Ambassador Asim Ahmad said violence against peacekeepers had grown in number and sophistication in several countries. Ahmad said accountability often remained weak after such incidents. Ahmad said expressions of grief were not enough when personnel were killed or injured. Ahmad also described the decision as a political signal from the council.

\"Condolences are necessary when peacekeepers are killed and injured, but whats needed is justice, he said. Most importantly, this resolution is a strong expression of the councils political will to stand by the peacekeepers.\"

UN Security Council resolution builds on 2021 peacekeepers steps

The council had earlier adopted a 2021 resolution focused on accountability for crimes against peacekeepers. The UN peacekeeping department reported progress after that step. It cited more national investigations and more suspected attackers being identified, detained, or both. The department also gave conviction figures linked to several mission areas.

It said 103 individuals had been convicted since 2020 for offences tied to the killing of 35 peacekeepers. The cases also involved two UN experts. The convictions related to incidents in the Central African Republic, Congo, Lebanon and Mali. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric welcomed Tuesday’s decision, but urged further work.

\"Much more needs to be done.\"

UN Security Council resolution sets 120-day report on peacekeepers

The new resolution asked the secretary-general to give the council options within 120 days. The aim was to strengthen accountability for crimes against peacekeepers. Ahmad said this would help the council review what worked and where gaps stayed. Lassen said the council wanted to study the proposals and turn them into progress.

With inputs from PTI