Celina Ali
Islamabad: The United Nations Security Council has unanimously adopted a resolution tabled by Pakistan and Denmark aimed at strengthening accountability for attacks against UN peacekeepers and improving justice mechanisms for crimes targeting personnel serving under UN mandates.
The resolution was supported by all 15 members of the Security Council and co-sponsored by more than 150 UN member states, reflecting broad international backing for stronger protections for peacekeeping forces operating in conflict zones.
The measure seeks to improve follow-up on investigations and prosecutions in cases involving the killing of or violence against UN peacekeepers. It also requests the UN Secretary-General to submit annual reports on the status of such cases and to provide recommendations within 120 days on strengthening accountability mechanisms.
A key feature of the resolution is the proposal to designate a senior focal point within the UN Secretariat to improve coordination between the United Nations, host countries, and troop- and police-contributing nations, particularly in monitoring and pursuing accountability for attacks.
Introducing the resolution, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Asim Iftikhar Ahmad said attacks on peacekeepers were becoming increasingly frequent and sophisticated, while accountability in many cases remained limited.
He said the international community must move beyond expressions of condemnation and ensure practical justice for those serving under the UN flag.
“Condolences are necessary, but they are not enough,” he said, stressing that the Security Council must ensure sustained attention to cases where peacekeepers are killed or injured while carrying out UN mandates.
Pakistan, which jointly sponsored the resolution with Denmark, highlighted its long-standing role as one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations. According to UN-related figures cited by Pakistan, hundreds of thousands of Pakistani personnel have served in missions worldwide, with 183 personnel losing their lives in the line of duty.
Diplomats said the resolution sends a strong message in support of peacekeepers and underscores the need for stronger international mechanisms to ensure accountability for attacks against them.
The adoption is being viewed as a significant step toward reinforcing the safety, credibility, and operational effectiveness of UN peacekeeping missions globally.
