UN Peacekeeping Operations: A Historical Overview
UN Member States have been deploying “Blue Helmets” (or peacekeepers) since 1948. The International Day of UN Peacekeepers, observed annually on 29 May, commemorates the dedication and efforts of peacekeeping missions worldwide.
1940s: UN’s First Peacekeeping Missions
In 1948, the UN Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) was established as the first peacekeeping mission to observe and assist in maintaining the Arab-Israeli ceasefire in Palestine. Tasks included security patrols and escorting food convoys to vulnerable communities.
1950s: Peacekeeping Efforts in the Middle East
The UN Emergency Force (UNEF) was deployed in 1956 to unblock the Suez Canal, resolving a crisis triggered by Egypt’s nationalisation of the canal. Over 6,000 peacekeepers served in this mission, which concluded in 1967.
1960s: Protecting Independence and Buffer Zones
In 1960, the UN Operation in the Congo (ONUC) was established to support the newly independent Republic of the Congo. This mission, with nearly 20,000 personnel at its peak, marked a significant milestone in peacekeeping history.
The UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) was also established in the same decade to prevent further conflict between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities.
1970s: Maintaining Peace in the Middle East
During the Arab-Israeli war in 1973, the UN deployed the UN Emergency Force II (UNEF II) and the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) to maintain peace between Israel and Syria.
1980s: Ceasefires and Independence
The UN Iran-Iraq Military Observer Group (UNIIMOG) monitored the implementation of a ceasefire between Iran and Iraq from 1988 to 1991. Additionally, UN missions supported African countries in their quest for independence from colonial powers.
1990s: War, Genocide, and Peacekeeping Innovations
UN Member States established the UN Protection Force (UNPROFOR) during the conflict in the former Yugoslavia. The UN also played a crucial role in supporting elections and peace agreements in various regions, including Rwanda and Guatemala.
2000s: Disarmament and Demobilisation
The UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) facilitated a ceasefire agreement and peace process in 2003, implementing disarmament and demobilisation programmes to support national security reform.
Challenges and Contributions of UN Peacekeepers
UN peacekeepers, comprising military, police, and civilian personnel, have served in multidimensional operations worldwide. In addition to maintaining peace and security, they facilitate political processes, protect civilians, assist in disarmament efforts, and promote human rights.
Since 1948, over two million individuals have served as UN peacekeepers, with more than 3,500 losing their lives in the pursuit of peace.
