An Analysis of the Efficacy of the UN Peacekeeping Mission: Case Study - DRC

Abstract

Africa and the Democratic Republic of the Congo in particular are not an exception to the UN's crucial role in maintaining peace and security around the world. Notable cases have been recorded where wars have been managed, conflicts resolved, and peace restored. Equally, the African region has contributed greatly in terms of military personnel, which has enriched global efforts. However, some peacekeeping missions flopped and the international community was accused of doing little in a country such as Rwanda when it plunged into peace and security instability when the genocide happened. The study seeks to analyse the efficacy of the UN peacekeeping missions in Africa – the case study being the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It will move from the history of wars and conflicts and the suitability of UN peacekeeping mission in DRC. It will look at the mandate of the UN as provided in the Charter of the United Nations, discuss the scope of the UN and whether the scope needs to be reviewed. The key players in peacekeeping missions will be highlighted and their impact in the conflict in DRC. Further, the study will look at the challenges marring the peacekeeping missions in DRC and point out possible recommendations that when borrowed and implemented, they will add to the existing knowledge and the suggestions that may be valuable in formulating policies to end the wars in DRC for long-lasting peace and security.