India remains cornerstone of UN peacekeeping, its women peacekeepers indispensable: UN peacekeeping chief

Sub :IR

Sec: Int organisation

Context:

UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix highlighted India’s pivotal role in UN peacekeeping, particularly emphasizing the contributions of Indian women peacekeepers.
He will attend a conference in New Delhi, titled “Enhancing the Role of Women in Peacekeeping,” which will bring together women peacekeepers from about 50 Global South countries.

About UN Peacekeeping:

UN peacekeeping refers to the deployment of international personnel by the United Nations to help maintain or restore peace in conflict areas.
UN peacekeepers (often referred to as Blue Berets or Blue Helmets because of their light blue berets or helmets) can include soldiers, police officers, and civilian personnel.
Peacekeeping forces are contributed by member states on a voluntary basis.
UN Peacekeeping is guided by three basic principles:
- Consent of the parties.
- Impartiality
- Non-use of force except in self-defence and defence of the mandate.

India’s Contribution to UN Peacekeeping:

India is a cornerstone of UN peacekeeping, consistently contributing significant personnel and resources to missions worldwide.
India ranks among the top contributors, with 5,384 personnel, including 153 women, across 10 missions. India’s involvement in UN peacekeeping is not limited to troop contributions but also includes leadership in training and gender-inclusive peacekeeping initiatives.
India deployed the first all-female Formed Police Unit (FPU) to Liberia in 2007, setting a global precedent. Today, approximately 45% of India’s deployed military observers and staff officers are women.

Role of Indian Women Peacekeepers:

Indian women peacekeepers have proven to enhance mission success by fostering trust within local communities, especially among women and children.
For instance, in Abyei, Indian women peacekeepers have adapted patrol routes and provided targeted support to marginalized groups, ensuring safer environments.
Their contributions also extend to intelligence gathering and early warning efforts, which are vital for peacekeeping missions in conflict zones.

Notable Examples of Indian Women in Peacekeeping:

Captain Seema Gowdar: Deputy Commander of the Female Engagement Team at UNISFA in Abyei, her team has strengthened civilian protection and community trust.
Major Radhika Sen: Awarded the 2023 UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award for her exemplary work in UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).