Commemorating the 75th International Day of United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers, the Indian Army held a remarkable ceremony on 29th May at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. The day, as designated by the UN General Assembly, is significant not merely for its annual recurrence but also for marking the anniversary of the first-ever UN peacekeeping (UNPK) mission that was launched in 1948. With the theme for 2023 being ‘Peace begins with me’, India announced plans to conduct two initiatives later in the year aimed at training women personnel from South East Asia, which is part of their partnership with ASEAN in the defence sector.
Insights into India-ASEAN Initiative for Women in UNPK operations
The ‘India-ASEAN Initiative for women in UNPK operations’ is a joint venture between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It undertakes the important task of promoting the active participation of women in UNPK operations by providing focused training and support to willing women personnel from ASEAN member nations. Two specialized courses will be offered at the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK) in New Delhi to impart the necessary skills and knowledge to women peacekeepers from ASEAN countries who can then contribute effectively to UNPK missions. Further, a Table Top Exercise for women officers from ASEAN is planned to help simulate various scenarios and challenges faced by UN peacekeepers and enhance their understanding and preparedness for UNPK operations.
Understanding UN Peacekeeping
UN Peacekeeping is a unique and significant instrument of the United Nations aimed at assisting countries in navigating the difficult transition from conflict towards peace. It encompasses the deployment of military, police, and civilian personnel to regions grappling with conflicts or political instability. Since its inception, UN Peacekeeping has been instrumental in ending conflicts and facilitating reconciliation in numerous countries.
From monitoring ceasefires, peace agreements, and security arrangements to protecting civilians and facilitating political dialogue and reconciliation, the mandates of peacekeeping operations are vast and varied. These also include building rule of law, security institutions, promoting human rights, delivering humanitarian aid and supporting refugee reintegration.
The first-ever mission in May 1948 was a milestone event when the UN Security Council authorized the deployment of military observers in the Middle East to monitor the Armistice Agreement. Peacekeepers operating under the aegis of UN must adhere to the principles of consent of parties, impartiality and non-use of force, except for self-defence and defence of the mandate.
India’s Contributions to UN Peacekeeping
India’s contributions to UN Peacekeeping operations have been significant, and it holds the status of being one of the largest troop-contributing countries. It boasts a history of deploying soldiers, medical personnel, and engineers to various peacekeeping missions worldwide. The nation’s Army has established the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK) in New Delhi, providing specialized training for over 12,000 troops every year.
In addition to its strong commitment to peacekeeping, India has been proactive in promoting gender equality in these operations. It has deployed Female Engagement Teams as part of various UN missions and also made history by leading one of the most substantial women contingents in Liberia. However, alongside these achievements are the sacrifices made by Indian army soldiers, with 179 losing their lives in the line of duty. Despite these tragic losses, India continues to stand firm in its commitment towards international peace and security.
