UN police are “indispensable” in implementing peacekeeping mandates

UN official Jean-Pierre Lacroix was speaking before the UN Security Council during the annual briefing for heads of police components in UN peacekeeping missions, where he said: “Despite severe restrictions, our police continue to serve with dedication, professionalism and courage.”

He pointed out that the United Nations police work in environments characterized by persistent insecurity, political fluctuations and increased operational risks.

Peacekeeping missions rely on UN police for community outreach, institutional reform and the prevention of criminal and inter-community violence.

UN police personnel also address challenges that require a policing response, including in densely populated environments such as camps for displaced people.

Lacroix said: “UN Police remain an essential component of UN peacekeeping missions, playing an indispensable role in implementing our mandates.”

He stressed that Member States, host countries, military and civilian personnel all bear a shared responsibility to ensure the success of peacekeeping operations. This is clearly evident in light of the unprecedented pressures facing the multilateral system, and the demands of peacekeeping operations to do more with less resources.

Repairs and reductions

The UN official noted that the Security Council meeting is being held at a time when a comprehensive review of UN peacekeeping operations is entering its final phase.

The meeting also comes in light of the United Nations reform initiative known as (UN-80) and the severe liquidity crisis affecting the entire United Nations system.

This has led to cost-cutting measures, including reducing the number of civilian staff in missions and repatriating members of the military and police.

Sustainable financing

In recent months, the head of peacekeeping operations visited some of the largest UN missions and learned how these measures affected the implementation of mandates, including the protection of civilians.

And he said: “Efficiency is essential. We are committed to finding ways to save. However, this drive for efficiency cannot replace predictable and sustainable financing.”

Lacroix recalled what the Secretary-General has repeatedly said that the ability of peacekeeping operations to fulfill their mandates will be severely affected unless assessed contributions from Member States are paid in full and on time.

Working for peacekeeping

Lacroix also highlighted the “Action for Peacekeeping” initiative, which continues to be the framework that enhances the effectiveness, safety and impact of peacekeeping operations.

He touched on seven priority areas, including supporting political solutions as the essence of sustainable peace, enhancing strategic and operational integration, investing in capabilities, and deepening cooperation with the host country’s police and other law enforcement agencies.

Lacroix said: “In all of these priorities, the women, peace and security agenda remains central.”

Although progress has been made in increasing women’s participation and leadership in United Nations police, this progress is limited “It remains fragile, especially given the budget cuts.”

Pledges of support

Jean-Pierre Lacroix noted that the 2025 Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting in Berlin demonstrated a renewed political commitment to peacekeeping.

And he said: “These pledges are essential to ensure that UN Police are prepared to address emerging threats in areas such as transnational organized crime, cybercrime, climate-related insecurity and the misuse of modern technologies.”

Lacroix concluded by saying that his briefing was an opportunity not only to evaluate progress, but to renew collective commitment.

He added: “We must ensure states are aligned with adequate resources. We must maintain political unity around peacekeeping.”