Statement by the Deputy Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Norberto Moretti at the UNSC debate on the UN Peacekeeping Operations - September 9th, 2024
Mr. President,
I thank Slovenia for convening this timely open debate. I also thank the briefers for their insightful remarks on the future of peacekeeping operations.
While facing multiple challenges to the peace and security pillar of the UN, we need to reflect on the crisis the current peacekeeping model is facing, including this Council´s recurring struggle to renew and adopt new peacekeeping mandates.
Peacekeeping has long been a cornerstone of the United Nations' efforts to maintain international peace and security. For about 20 years this tool has evolved and been strengthened to provide stability, protect civilians, and foster conditions conducive to sustainable peace. Yet, the international peace and security landscape has dramatically changed, in the last few years. So have the dynamics of conflict and the needs of the people we serve.
Protracted crises, the rise of multiple actors, including non-state ones, multifaceted humanitarian challenges, and the use of new-technologies, are increasing the complexity of modern conflicts. Strategic competition among great powers, distrust and frustration from host countries and local populations are also key elements of such landscape. We must update the peacekeeping model to address this new reality.
This new model has to recognize that military responses are limited and sustainable peace cannot be achieved through security measures alone. Sustainable peace requires a comprehensive approach to security - which involves consideration of the root causes of violence, as well as of the social and economic situation on the ground. An effective model of peacekeeping, thus, requires an approach that integrates political, security, and sustainable development dimensions.
This could be achieved through a proper mix of peacekeeping and peacebuilding activities, which should be done in a simultaneous manner. Peacekeeping gains are better maintained in a society that is already in the path for improved social cohesion.
An effective model of peacekeeping should also aim for increased coordination and engagement with regional organizations and local stakeholders. These partnerships are essential for contextualizing our peacekeeping operations and ensuring that our efforts are both relevant and effective.
A future model for peacekeeping must be underpinned by strong political support, both by host states and Council members, and by the adequate resources for the fulfillment of their goals
Mr. President,
The debate you proposed today could be the starting point of a wider conversation on the future of peacekeeping. While we develop a new and more fit-for purpose model of operations, we must keep on striving to deliver the best possible result for the people this organization is committed to protecting.
Ensuring that peacekeepers adhere to the highest standards of conduct is crucial for maintaining the credibility and legitimacy of our missions. Adequately preventing and responding to sexual exploitation and abuse is also a core strategy of promoting and respecting human rights in the context of peacekeeping. We must also encourage the essential role of women peacekeepers. By liaising with local actors, female uniformed personnel can assess how human rights can be enhanced and better protected on the ground.
Safety and security of peacekeepers must also continue to be a priority. The UN, troop and police contributing countries and host states must act in close collaboration to ensure that military and civilian personnel are safe and in conditions to fulfil their respective mandates.
These are just a few examples of actions to keep on improving the response on the ground.
Mr. President,
Brazil remains committed to supporting and strengthening the United Nations' peacekeeping efforts. As we look to the future, we reaffirm our commitment to adapting our approaches, enhancing collaboration, and ensuring that our peacekeeping operations are ready to meet the challenges ahead, advancing our collective pursuit of peace and security for all.
Thank you.