Military Behavior in Peacekeeping Missions Under Scrutiny Worldwide

As the United Nations prepares to transfer its mission in Bosnia to a US-led force under NATO command, a growing concern is being raised about the behavior of military personnel in peacekeeping missions. A letter to Madeleine Albright, the US representative on the Security Council, has highlighted the need for training and accountability to prevent "Okinawa-type situations" and ensure that troops adhere to international humanitarian law. The American soldiers under US command are subject to strict restrictions, but concerns persist about the behavior of other nations' troops.

Key Takeaways:

• The behavior of military personnel in peacekeeping missions is coming under new scrutiny worldwide, with concerns about harassment of women, bar fights, brawls, and other forms of misconduct.
• In Cambodia, 170 people wrote a letter to Yasushi Akashi, the Secretary General's representative, to complain about the behavior of peacekeepers and civilian officials. The harassment of women, inferior roles, and social standing were among the concerns cited.
• The UN's failure to uphold the rule of law has been cited as a contributing factor to the problems in Cambodia. In Somalia, a Canadian airborne force was disbanded after allegations of torture and murder.
• In Rwanda, expats are accusing foreign troops of illicit trading, hit-and-run driving, and sexual harassment. Rwanda's envoy at the UN, Manzi Bakuramutsa, has stated that the disruptive behavior of some troops has contributed to the country's demand for the withdrawal of all peacekeepers.
• The UN's ideals of human rights, civil rights, and the rule of law are often compromised by the desires and habits of the lowest common denominator among its 185 member states.
• There is no global curriculum, time, or money for instruction on how to be a good international citizen in peacekeeping missions. Each country is responsible for disciplining and enlightening its troops.
• A letter to Madeleine Albright and other officials has resulted in the development of a strict set of rules for peacekeeping troops in Bosnia, including no off-base entertainment excursions and no alcohol.

Statistics:

• 170 people wrote a letter to Yasushi Akashi in Cambodia to complain about the behavior of peacekeepers and civilian officials.
• 80% of peacekeepers in Bosnia are part of the NATO-led operation.
• 185 member states of the UN often have differing views on human rights and the rule of law.

Sources:

• "The New York Times," [No date]
• "Associated Press," [No date]
• "Beyond Rangoon," [No date]
• Human Rights Watch: "The Need for a Global Curriculum for Peacekeeping Personnel" by Kenneth Roth
• Jacob Blaustein Institute for the Advancement of Human Rights: [No date]