Peacekeepers must confront complex conflicts on the ground, stalled peace processes and a rise in transnational terrorism, but, Guterres said, an overarching challenge they face is the gap between aspirations and reality.
A4P aims to close this gap by reorienting peacekeeping towards more realistic expectations; make missions more robust and secure; mobilize more political support; and provide better equipment and training to the “blue helmets”.
The two central aspirations of UN peace operations are a greater push towards political solutions, enabling the successful completion of missions, and the protection of civilians. On this point, Guterres said that “we can never forget the tragic consequences of our failures.”
The initiative, Guterres said, is already becoming a reality, with independently conducted reviews determining how the UN can better deliver its mandates, including through more proactive and accountable missions; innovative approaches to training and equipment; and active measures to strengthen the role of women in peacekeeping.
Referring to allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse, Guterres said they are being responded to more quickly, with more support for victims; and that the UN is now more effective in seeking justice.
The achievements of peacekeeping, Guterres said, go far beyond keeping the peace: “Blue helmets are protecting millions of displaced people and supporting the delivery of life-saving humanitarian aid. Their presence sends a powerful message of international solidarity with the most vulnerable.”
But, the UN chief said, partnerships with regional and subregional organizations are critical for the UN to achieve its goals. When it comes to fighting terrorism or peace enforcement, African peace operations – including those commissioned by the African Union – are playing a critical role.
The Secretary-General urged more countries to endorse the Declaration of Shared Commitments on UN Peacekeeping Operations. As of Tuesday, it has been endorsed by more than 146 governments, and called for increased support for UN peacekeeping operations, including through predictable, adequate and sustainable funding, to make peacekeeping fit for the future.
Thanking the Heads of State and Government for their contributions in terms of troops, police and funding; peacekeeping mandate managers; and governments hosting peacekeeping missions, Guterres said that as the Declaration provides a clear agenda for the peacekeeping community, the time has come to translate commitments into action.