At the outset, it is important to pay tribute to the dedicated individuals in blue helmets who tirelessly work to uphold international peace and security. We also honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in this noble pursuit.
The safety and security of peacekeepers is paramount. Therefore, we welcome the unanimous adoption of Security Council resolution 2823 earlier this year, which aims to enhance accountability for attacks on personnel engaged in UN peacekeeping operations.
Recognising the Role of Peacekeeping
We acknowledge the significance of the Secretary-General’s Review regarding the future of all forms of UN peacekeeping operations. Peace operations remain one of the most effective instruments at the disposal of the United Nations for maintaining global peace and security. However, the context in which these operations function is evolving rapidly.
Conflicts are becoming increasingly intricate, more internationalised, and heavily influenced by emerging technologies. To remain effective, peacekeeping operations must continuously adapt to these changing circumstances.
Emphasising Political Strategies
Firstly, we appreciate the Review’s focus on the primacy of political strategies. Peacekeeping operations yield the best results when they align with a clear political framework, realistic objectives, and a credible pathway towards peace. From the outset, missions should be designed with credible exit strategies, but they must also maintain the flexibility to adapt to changing situations, ensuring that they leave behind the necessary conditions for sustainable peace when they depart.
Enhancing Mission Effectiveness
Secondly, we support the Review’s call for the development of more focused, adaptable, and high-performing peace operations. These operations should concentrate on tasks that they are uniquely qualified to undertake, particularly in the realms of politics and security, while avoiding redundancy within the broader UN system. It is essential that mandates are prioritised and that a stronger alignment exists between mandates, resources, and political objectives.
Performance is crucial to the success of these missions. This necessitates that both uniformed and civilian personnel are adequately trained, well-equipped, and held accountable for their performance. Upholding the highest standards of conduct is essential, particularly with a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.
The participation of women is also critical for the effectiveness of missions. This extends beyond mere representation; it enhances operational performance, enriches community engagement, and supports more effective peace processes. As co-chair of the Elsie Initiative Fund in 2025, the United Kingdom proudly advocated for the elimination of barriers to women’s participation in UN peacekeeping, and we encourage continued advancements in this regard.
Equipping for Modern Challenges
Thirdly, peacekeeping operations must be equipped to address the realities of today’s operational landscape. Missions require access to the necessary technologies, capabilities, and training to function safely and effectively. They must also be prepared to navigate a complex information environment, particularly in combating the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation in conflict zones.
We remain concerned about the restrictions imposed by certain host states on the use of vital equipment. Such limitations diminish situational awareness, hinder the fulfilment of mandates, and restrict missions’ ability to respond effectively to evolving threats. Furthermore, we reiterate the necessity for assessed contributions to be paid fully and punctually, without conditions. Effective peacekeeping relies on predictable and sustainable financing.
Commitment to Future Peacekeeping Efforts
President, the challenges confronting peacekeeping are evolving, yet the need for effective peacekeeping remains as crucial as ever. The United Kingdom is prepared to collaborate with the Secretary-General, the Secretariat, and fellow Member States to ensure that UN peace operations remain adaptable, effective, and capable of meeting the challenges that lie ahead.