India’s Commitment to Accountability for Crimes Against UN Peacekeepers
India has reaffirmed its strong commitment to ensuring accountability for crimes committed against United Nations peacekeepers, emphasizing that it is a “strategic necessity” for global peacekeeping operations. This stance was clearly articulated during a high-level meeting of the Group of Friends (GoF) for promoting accountability for crimes against peacekeepers held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
Addressing Challenges Faced by Peacekeepers
At the event, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador P Harish, highlighted the significant challenges that UN peacekeepers encounter while operating in increasingly dangerous areas. He pointed out that these crimes often go unpunished, which undermines international peace efforts and emboldens aggressors.
“United Nations peacekeepers face tremendous obstacles while working in increasingly dangerous areas. But for the most part, these crimes continue to go unpunished. This lack of accountability severely undermines international peace efforts by giving assailants more confidence,” he said.
Ambassador Harish emphasized the need for accountability, stating that it is not only a legal requirement but also essential for the integrity and effectiveness of international peacekeeping. He added, “Peacekeepers’ safety is directly improved by justice, allowing them to carry out their vital missions. It is our common duty to fulfill this obligation.”
Strengthening International Cooperation
The High Level Meeting of the Group of Friends for Accountability of Crimes against Peacekeepers, co-chaired by India and other leading nations, reaffirmed the steadfast dedication of the GoF to ensuring justice for those who serve under the UN flag. The meeting underscored the critical imperative to combat impunity for attacks against peacekeepers, highlighting that accountability is not just about justice for individuals but also about the effectiveness, credibility, and future of UN Peace Operations worldwide.
Senior representatives from around 40 Member States, senior UN officials, and experts, including those from field missions, deliberated on enhanced strategies, operational frameworks, and fostering greater international cooperation to bring perpetrators of crimes against peacekeepers to justice.
Escalating Threats and Holistic Approaches
The discussions highlighted the escalating threats faced by peacekeepers in volatile environments and the undeniable link between impunity and the continued targeting of these front-line protectors. The statement noted that the Group’s deliberations centered on understanding these intricate linkages, recognizing that a holistic approach is required, involving not only punitive measures but also preventative strategies, alongside unwavering political will from all stakeholders.
Launching the GoF and Legal Frameworks
The GoF for Accountability of Crimes against Peacekeepers was formally launched in December 2022 during India’s Presidency of the UN Security Council, building upon the landmark Security Council Resolution 2589 (2021). This resolution specifically called for facilitating accountability for crimes committed against peacekeepers and requested updates from the Secretary-General on progress.
The GoF is dedicated to advancing legal frameworks, promoting investigations, and supporting measures to ensure accountability for crimes committed against United Nations peacekeepers. Its mission is to deter future attacks and provide justice to peacekeepers and their families.
India’s Leadership and Contributions
As a Co-Chair of the GoF, India continues to demonstrate leadership and commitment to the cause of peacekeeping and accountability. With a history spanning over seven decades, India is the largest cumulative troop-contributing country to the United Nations, having deployed more than 300,000 peacekeepers to date.
India’s peacekeepers have served with distinction and courage in virtually every major UN mission, enduring significant sacrifices. Over 182 Indian peacekeepers have made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. This legacy underscores India’s deep commitment to global peace and security.