2017 saw the highest number of peacekeepers fatalities, with 56 peacekeepers killed, the United Nations said on Monday.
“Peacekeeping is a risky activity. A certain number of casualties may occur even if all necessary preventive measures are taken. But since 2013, casualties have spiked. One hundred and ninety-five personnel in United Nations peacekeeping missions have been killed by acts of violence, more than during any other 5-year period in history,” according to, “Improving Security of United Nations Peacekeepers: We need to change the way we are doing business,” a report directed by the UN secretary-general.
The report further suggested that the numbers are likely to raise calling for change in order to reverse the trend.
According to the report, since 1948, more than 3,500 people lost their lives while serving in UN peace operation. 943 of the deaths were due to acts of violence. There has been a consistent increase with 195 deaths recorded between 2013-2017.
Last year, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appointed Lieutenant General (retired) Carlos Alberto dos Santos Cruz of Brazil to carry out an in-depth review of peacekeeping fatalities and injuries due to hostile acts, with an aim of improving the safety and security of UN peacekeepers.
Dos Santos Cruz’s team visited UN peacekeeping operations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, Mali and South Sudan. The team sought to identify why the UN has had so many casualties caused by acts of violence and work towards reducing these casualties. The report indicated that with the influx of armed groups, extremists, organised crime, the UN flag simply no longer offers a natural protection to peacekeepers.
The review team also identified four broad areas where the United Nations and Member States must take actions to reduce fatalities. Among the suggestions include: changing mindsets so that personnel are aware of the risks and empowered to take the initiative to deter, prevent and respond to attacks…and enhancing accountability to ensure that those able to take actions to prevent fatalities and injuries live up to their responsibilities.
The Departments of Peacekeeping Operations and Field Support further have since adopted an action plan to implement its recommendation. The plan focuses on three main areas: operational behavior and mindset; capacity building and readiness; and support issues.
