UN Peacekeeping: The Role of India in Global Stability

What is UN Peacekeeping?

UN Peacekeeping represents a global initiative led by the United Nations aimed at assisting nations in resolving conflicts and moving towards sustainable peace. This effort includes the deployment of military forces, police personnel, and civilians into areas affected by conflict. The primary objectives are to prevent violence, safeguard civilians, and bolster political processes.

The Difference Between Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding

• Peacekeeping: This strategy involves sending armed personnel, such as military and police, to conflict regions to avert violence and maintain stability. For instance, UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) plays a crucial role in monitoring the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon.
• Peacebuilding: This broader approach encompasses rebuilding institutions, promoting economic development, and ensuring lasting stability following a conflict. An example is the UN Peacebuilding Commission, which aids post-conflict recovery in countries like Sierra Leone by enhancing governance and economic initiatives.

India's Record in UN Peacekeeping

India has been a significant contributor to UN peacekeeping efforts since the 1950s. More than 290,000 Indian personnel have participated in over 50 missions globally, solidifying India's position as the largest troop-contributing country (TCC) to UN peacekeeping operations.

Women in Indian Peacekeeping

India is recognized for its proactive stance in incorporating women into UN peacekeeping missions, which enhances both inclusivity and effectiveness. Notable contributions include:

• Kiran Bedi: The first woman UN Police Advisor.
• Major Suman Gawani: Honored with the UN Military Gender Advocate Award in 2019.
• Major Radhika Sen: Received the same award in 2023.
• Seema Dhundia: Led India's inaugural all-women Formed Police Unit (FPU) in Liberia.

Currently, over 150 Indian women peacekeepers are actively engaged in six vital missions, including those in the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Lebanon, Golan Heights, Western Sahara, and Abyei.

India's enduring commitment to peacekeeping and peacebuilding highlights its dedication to fostering global peace and security.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the primary purpose of UN Peacekeeping?
Answer: The main goal of UN Peacekeeping is to help countries in conflict transition towards peace by deploying military, police, and civilians to prevent violence and protect civilians.

Q2. How does peacekeeping differ from peacebuilding?
Answer: Peacekeeping focuses on deploying armed personnel to maintain stability in conflict zones, whereas peacebuilding involves rebuilding institutions and fostering long-term economic development after conflicts.

Q3. How has India contributed to UN Peacekeeping?
Answer: India has sent over 290,000 personnel to more than 50 UN missions, making it the largest troop-contributing country in peacekeeping operations worldwide.

Q4. What role do women play in India's peacekeeping efforts?
Answer: India actively deploys women in peacekeeping roles, enhancing inclusivity. Notable figures include Major Suman Gawani and Major Radhika Sen, both recognized for their contributions.

Q5. Where are Indian women peacekeepers currently deployed?
Answer: Indian women peacekeepers are involved in missions across various regions, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Lebanon, Golan Heights, Western Sahara, and Abyei.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary function of UN Peacekeeping?
A) Economic development
B) Military intervention
C) Preventing violence and protecting civilians
D) Political negotiation
Correct Answer: C

Question 2: Which of the following describes peacebuilding?
A) Deployment of armed forces
B) Rebuilding institutions and economic development
C) Monitoring ceasefires
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: How many missions has India participated in to date?
A) 25
B) 50
C) 75
D) 100
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Who was the first woman UN Police Advisor?
A) Major Radhika Sen
B) Kiran Bedi
C) Major Suman Gawani
D) Seema Dhundia
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What significant award was given to Major Suman Gawani?
A) UN Peacekeeping Award
B) UN Military Gender Advocate Award
C) International Peace Award
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: B