UN Peacekeeping and Building Hope through Infrastructure in Conflict Zones

• In Event: Peacekeeping

Abstract

In addition to participating in security-related tasks and providing humanitarian aid, United Nations (UN) peacekeepers also contribute to the development of vital infrastructure in conflict countries. While their primary focus is on immediate security measures to address ongoing conflicts, their presence in these areas is observed to have a dual impact on levels of violence. This study suggests that the presence of UN peacekeepers has both direct and indirect effects on decreasing battle-related deaths. The direct effect occurs when peacekeepers act as a deterrent to conflicting groups, restricting their activities on the battlefield. The indirect effect is manifested when peacekeepers engage in infrastructure development, thereby raising the cost of continuing war and garnering local support for UN peacekeeping efforts. The increased development at the local level and enhanced trust in UN peacekeepers foster improved cooperation and intelligence, ultimately contributing to a reduction in ongoing violence. Results from the mediation analysis, testing the direct and indirect impacts of peacekeepers’ presence on battle-related deaths in province-level data from three African countries spanning from July 2010 to December 2022, support the anticipated mechanism. The results illuminate the multifaceted influence of UN peacekeepers in conflict situations and their role in promoting peace and stability.

Author

• Burak Giray, Hertie School