UN Peacemaking and Preventive Diplomacy Quiz

Questions and Answers

What role does the DPPA play in relation to peacekeeping operations?

It is responsible for high-level political decision-making at UNHQ.

It formulates sanctions against non-cooperating states.

It supports elections in post-conflict countries and provides policy guidance. (correct)

It conducts military operations in conflict zones.

Which statement accurately describes the levels of decision-making in UN peacekeeping?

Strategic authority manages the day-to-day military work.

Operational and tactical levels are both based at UNHQ.

Operational authority is responsible for high-level political decision-making.

Tactical authority oversees the management of military and police operations. (correct)

What is the significance of a mandate in UN peacekeeping?

It serves as a recommendation for potential intervention.

It is the authorization for actions or tasks, including the use of force. (correct)

It defines the operational budget for peacekeeping missions.

It outlines the recruitment process for peacekeeping personnel.

Which of the following statements about UN membership is true?

Currently, there are 193 member states recognized by the UN. Signup and view all the answers

What does the UN Charter primarily outline?

The purposes and main components of the UN. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the UN Security Council regarding international conflicts?

To maintain international peace and security Signup and view all the answers

What action can the General Assembly take under Resolution 377(V) when the Security Council fails to act?

Take action to address conflicts through a majority vote Signup and view all the answers

Which type of action is NOT typically involved in preventive measures against conflicts?

Military force Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes peace enforcement from peacekeeping?

Peace enforcement involves the use of coercive measures such as armed force Signup and view all the answers

How are contributions to UN peacekeeping operations determined?

Through assessed contributions reflecting each country's economic wealth Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

UN Peacekeeping and Political Functions

Special Political Missions (SPMs) can take various forms, including political field offices, special envoys, and expert panels for monitoring sanctions.
The UN facilitates dispute resolution among states through its good offices.
The Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) oversees peacemaking and preventive diplomacy efforts.
DPPA assists post-conflict nations with elections, providing needs assessments, policy guidance, and specialized personnel to support peacekeeping operations.

Decision-Making Levels in UN Peacekeeping

Three levels of decision-making exist:
- Strategic: high-level political decisions managed at UN Headquarters (UNHQ).
- Operational: management carried out at mission headquarters in the field.
- Tactical: day-to-day military, police, and civilian management below mission HQ.

United Nations Overview

The UN was established in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states.
One of the UN's primary goals is the maintenance of international peace and security, as stated in its Charter.
The UN's core documents include the UN Charter, which outlines its purpose and structural components.

Peacekeeping Mandates and Resolutions

A mandate is an authorization for a specific action, legally underpinning peacekeeping operations, including permissible force use.
Resolutions serve as formal expressions of positions by UN principal organs.

UN Security Council Responsibilities

The Security Council maintains international peace; it can intervene even in non-member states under certain resolutions.
The "Uniting for Peace" resolution allows the General Assembly to act when the Security Council is deadlocked.

Funding of UN Peacekeeping Operations

UN Peacekeeping Operations (PKOs) are funded through assessed contributions from member states, with larger shares assigned to permanent Security Council members.

Spectrum of Peace and Security Activities

Peace and security actions aim to prevent disputes from escalating, mitigate relapse into conflict, restore peace, and build sustainable peace.
Among various activities, only peacekeeping and peace enforcement may involve the use of force.

Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding

Conflict prevention involves proactive diplomatic efforts before conflicts start or when relapse risks exist.
Peacebuilding focuses on creating lasting peace by addressing the root causes of conflict.

Peacekeeping Principles

The three basic principles of UN peacekeeping remain: consent, impartiality, and non-use of force except in self-defense.
Consent is crucial as it provides operational freedom and prevents peacekeepers from being parties in conflicts.

Credibility and Legitimacy in Peacekeeping

The credibility of peacekeeping missions relies on effective management and managing the expectations of international and local communities.
National and local ownership fosters engagement from local actors and enhances sustainability of peace efforts post-mission.

Conduct and Behavior of Peacekeeping Personnel

High standards in mandate implementation, using force responsibly, zero tolerance for misconduct, and respect for local customs contribute to perceived legitimacy.
Managing expectations involves being transparent and avoiding false promises to local communities.

Mission Structure and Coordination

Different components of peacekeeping missions, including military, civilian, and police, work collaboratively towards the specified mandate.
The Support component is responsible for logistics and administrative functions, enabling substantive components to focus on local assistance.

Leadership in Peacekeeping Missions

The Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) in multidimensional operations is typically a civilian, not a military officer.
The Chief of Staff (COS) works closely with the Head of Mission (HOM) and manages mission activities in alignment with strategic guidance.

Description

Test your knowledge on the roles of Special Political Missions (SPMs) and the UN's efforts in peacemaking and preventive diplomacy. This quiz also covers the Electoral Assistance Division's support in post-conflict elections and its significance in peacekeeping operations.