Second Session

United Nations in Peacekeeping and Peace building

Date: September 16, 2020

Time: 12.20 pm to 2:20 pm

This session reflected on the UN’s legitimacy and role in global peacekeeping and peace building efforts. Panelists noted their appreciation for the UN Secretary General’s focus on preventing conflict and building sustainable peace, particularly his recent call for a global ceasefire to help combat COVID-19.

Participants recognized the leading role of Bangladesh in peacekeeping and peace building, highlighting the fact that Bangladesh is currently the largest troop-contributing country to UN peacekeeping missions, which includes a high number of female peacekeepers. Participants also recognized Bangladesh’s support for UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women Peace and Security—a watershed resolution that recognizes the importance of women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation in conflict resolution as well as the need to increase women’s participation at all levels of decision-making in peace processes. Participants also expressed desire for the concept of “Human Security” to be further emphasized in peacekeeping mandates and practices.