Implementing Peacebuilding Activities

Peacekeeping missions are temporary measures, but many of their most important tasks are aimed at supporting the long-term conditions for sustainable peace. In multidimensional missions, peacekeepers do far more than monitor ceasefires or help provide security. They also contribute to peacebuilding by helping national authorities and communities address the underlying causes and consequences of conflict.

This session introduces participants to the main peacebuilding activities that may be mandated by the UN Security Council in multidimensional peacekeeping operations. These include mine action, disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR), security sector reform and governance (SSR&G), rule of law support, electoral assistance, and support to the restoration and extension of State authority. The course explains what these activities involve, why they matter to sustaining peace, and how different mission components and external partners contribute to their implementation.

Participants will explore the roles played by military, police and civilian components, as well as the importance of working with host governments, UN agencies, regional organizations, civil society and local communities. The session also highlights the importance of legitimacy, local ownership, confidence-building and inclusive engagement in successful peacebuilding. Particular attention is given to the role of civil affairs and the importance of engaging civil society in order to support political processes, strengthen community trust and sustain peace over time.

By the end of the session, participants will have a clearer understanding of how peacebuilding activities are integrated into peacekeeping missions, and why these activities are critical to moving from fragile stability towards lasting peace.