India advocates greater role for women in UN peacekeeping missions*

New Delhi: A delegation of participants from the Conference for Women Peacekeepers of the Global South met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday. Addressing the delegation, the President underscored the critical role of women in UN peacekeeping missions, emphasizing their contribution to inclusivity, trust-building, and effective conflict resolution.

Women in peacekeeping: A vital presence

President Murmu stated that the participation of women in peacekeeping missions enhances diversity and inclusivity. She noted that women peacekeepers often have greater access to local communities, serve as role models for women and children, and are more adept at addressing gender-based violence. Their presence strengthens trust and promotes dialogue in conflict zones.

Highlighting research findings, she stressed that peacekeeping missions with a higher percentage of female personnel have been more successful in reducing violence and achieving long-term peace agreements. She called for greater efforts to induct more women into UN peacekeeping missions.

India’s legacy in UN peacekeeping

Recalling India’s long-standing contribution to global peacekeeping efforts, President Murmu pointed out that over 2,90,000 Indian peacekeepers have served in more than 50 UN peacekeeping missions. Currently, over 5,000 Indian personnel are deployed across nine active missions, often in challenging and hostile conditions.

The President praised the role of Indian women peacekeepers, stating that they have consistently upheld professionalism and dedication in their missions. She noted that 154 Indian women peacekeepers are currently deployed across six UN operations, following a legacy that dates back to the 1960s in Congo and the historic all-female police unit sent to Liberia in 2007.

Global South Conference on Women in Peacekeeping

The visiting delegation is in New Delhi to participate in a conference titled “Women in Peacekeeping: A Global South Perspective”. The event, organized by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the Centre for UN Peacekeeping (CUNPK), aims to foster dialogue among women officials from Global South Nations.

The conference will address contemporary challenges in peacekeeping missions and explore strategies to enhance the participation and effectiveness of women in these operations.

President Murmu’s address reaffirmed India’s commitment to increasing women’s representation in peacekeeping forces, further strengthening its role as a global leader in peace and security.