International Peace & Security: Core Concepts & Challenges
International Peace & Security: Key Points
Global peace relies on diplomacy, enforcement, and justice. The UN and ICC are central to conflict resolution.
Key Success Factors & Institutional Roles
UN and ICC Roles in Peace & Security
- UNSC (United Nations Security Council): Maintains international peace and security. Composed of 15 members; 5 permanent members hold veto power (United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia, China).
- UN Tools: Diplomacy, mediation, arbitration, peacekeeping, and peacebuilding.
- ICC (International Criminal Court): Tries individuals for genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression.
UN Peacekeeping Principles
- Consent: The UN must obtain agreement from all conflicting parties.
- Impartiality: The UN acts fairly and without bias, not passively.
- Limited Force: Force is used only for self-defense or to protect the mandate.
The Geneva Conventions
- Four international treaties establishing standards for humane treatment in war.
- Primarily protect civilians and prisoners of war.
Illustrative Case Studies
- Gulf War: The UN authorized military force but lacked post-war peacebuilding efforts.
- Rwanda: The UN failed to prevent genocide, leading to significant reforms (Brahimi Report).
- Ukraine: The UN condemned the invasion, but the UNSC was blocked by Russia’s veto.
- Syria: UN action was limited by Russia’s veto, resulting in a massive humanitarian crisis.
Critiques and Reform Efforts of the UN
- Common criticisms include inaction (e.g., Syria), inefficiency (e.g., Rwanda), and veto abuse (e.g., Ukraine).
- Brahimi Report (2000): This report called for faster deployment, enhanced intervention powers, and improved peacekeeping resources.
Quick Recap of Key Points
- UNSC: Makes crucial peace and security decisions.
- ICC: Prosecutes individuals for severe international crimes.
- Peacekeeping: Operates on principles of consent, impartiality, and limited force.
- Case Studies: Illustrate real-world applications and challenges.
- Critiques: Highlight how veto power can limit effective action.