Clinton Administration Stalls Security Council Action on Bosnia Peacekeeping Resolution

Strategic Insights -

The Clinton Administration is facing Congressional pressure for a stalling of Security Council action on a crucial resolution that would authorize an expansion of peacekeeping forces in Bosnia. A sharp letter to Secretary of State Warren Christopher from the chairmen of three influential House panels raises questions about the cost of the expanded forces, making it difficult for the Administration to vote for the resolution anytime soon.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Administration's letter to Congress suggests that they are unaware of the cost implications of the expanded peacekeeping forces, with an estimated cost of $520 million per year.
  • The British and French had hoped to see the resolution enacted today or on Wednesday, but the pressure from Congress is likely to delay Security Council action.
  • The resolution needs to spell out the mandate of new rapid-reaction forces being sent to Bosnia, and the Administration is stalling due to concerns about the cost of the expanded forces.
  • Administration officials say they have had no basic change of heart, but need to consult with Congress on the financial implications of the resolution.
  • European diplomats are surprised and dismayed by the developments in Washington, and France's President Jacques Chirac will visit Washington to discuss the delay on the resolution.
  • The Clinton Administration officials say that they are concerned about the potential implications of the resolution on the UN peacekeeping mission in Bosnia.

Statistics:

  • The estimated cost of the expanded peacekeeping forces is $520 million per year, with the United States assessed 31 percent of the cost of operations.
  • The resolution would need to be enacted by the Security Council to allow the rapid-reaction force to be paid for by the United Nations.
  • The rapid-reaction force is being assembled by Britain, France, and the Netherlands, and would be paid for by the UN through assessments.

Sources:

  • [Letter from three House chairmen to Secretary of State Warren Christopher"]
  • [New York Times, "Clinton Administration Pressed to Support a Bosnia Resolution"]
  • [US Senate Armed Forces Committee testimony by Gen. John Shalikashvili, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff]
  • [European diplomatic sources]