peacekeeper

A peacekeeper is an individual or organization involved in maintaining or restoring peace in conflict or post-conflict settings. In international relations, peacekeepers are most often personnel deployed by the United Nations or regional bodies to oversee ceasefires, create conditions for sustainable peace, and protect civilians. UN peacekeepers are typically multinational forces that include military personnel, police, and civilian staff, and they are commonly known as Blue Helmets or Blue Berets.

Core roles of peacekeepers include monitoring and verifying ceasefires, supporting humanitarian access, assisting disarmament and demobilization, helping to rebuild governance and security institutions, and facilitating the conduct of elections and the rule of law. Peacekeeping missions operate under mandates issued by the UN Security Council or by regional organizations and generally require the consent of the host state and the parties to the conflict. Mandates emphasize impartiality, civilian protection, and safe access for aid delivery.

Operations can range from simple observation and verification to multidimensional efforts that may involve border monitoring, security sector reform, mine clearance, and programs for refugees and internally displaced persons. The nature of missions has evolved from light observer missions to complex deployments with civilian components designed to address political, humanitarian, and security challenges.

Historically, modern peacekeeping began in the mid-20th century and expanded after the Cold War to address broader peace-building needs. While peacekeeping has faced criticisms regarding neutrality, effectiveness, and protection of civilians in certain crises, it remains a central tool of international policy aimed at preventing relapses into conflict and supporting political solutions.