The United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution on Tuesday aimed at strengthening accountability for attacks on UN peacekeepers, amid growing concern over rising violence and persistently low prosecution rates. The resolution, drafted by Denmark and Pakistan and co-sponsored by 152 countries, urges host nations to take all necessary measures to investigate and prosecute those responsible for attacks on UN personnel.
Deadly Incidents Prompt Action
The move follows a series of deadly incidents targeting UN personnel, including the killing of seven peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) after a fresh round of fighting erupted between Israel and Hezbollah in early March. The resolution notes that prosecution rates have remained low and that accountability is essential to prevent future attacks.
Key Provisions of the Resolution
While reaffirming that host states bear primary responsibility for the safety of UN personnel, the resolution urges all parties to cooperate with investigations. It requests the UN secretary-general to designate a senior focal point within the UN to coordinate efforts to improve accountability for crimes against peacekeepers. Additionally, it encourages troop- and police-contributing countries to deploy investigators, at the request of host states, to assist inquiries. The council also calls for an annual UN progress report on investigations and prosecutions related to attacks on peacekeepers.
War Crimes and Future Steps
The Security Council stated that attacks against UN peacekeepers may constitute war crimes and expressed its intention to consider further steps to strengthen accountability for such acts. The resolution passed unanimously, reflecting broad international support for protecting UN personnel in conflict zones.
