The GPA contends that the current peacekeeping system lacks robust mechanisms to hold perpetrators of violence and human rights abuses accountable, undermining its credibility and effectiveness.
Rwanda Genocide: The failure of the UN to prevent the 1994 genocide in Rwanda is one of the most glaring examples of the system’s shortcomings. Despite early warnings of impending violence, the UN Security Council failed to authorize a robust intervention. The existing peacekeeping mission, UNAMIR, was understaffed and under-resourced, with a limited mandate that prevented it from taking decisive action. As a result, over 800,000 people were killed in just 100 days. The international community’s failure to act has left a lasting stain on the conscience of the world.
Srebrenica Massacre: In 1995, UN peacekeepers failed to prevent the massacre of over 8,000 Bosnian men and boys in Srebrenica, despite the area being designated a UN safe zone. The peacekeeping force, UNPROFOR, was under-resourced and lacked a clear mandate to use force to protect civilians. This failure highlighted the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms and a more proactive approach to peacekeeping.
These tragedies underscore the importance of establishing a peacekeeping authority with the mandate and resources to enforce international law and protect civilians effectively.
Read more in the book, The Global Peace Alliance