Briefing the Security Council on Friday (28 July) in New York, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, said, “The role of military components in the Protection of Civilians through prevention and response is a key one for the importance of peace operations.”
Lacroix also said, “I would like to particularly salute the peacekeepers serving in MINUSMA, as the mission undertakes its withdrawal in conditions that remain challenging, including regarding security.”
He also thanked 125 member states who provide uniformed personnel to UN peace operations. Lacroix added, “I also want to pay tribute to the men and women who have fallen in this service of the United Nations”.
Lacroix continued, “Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. It continues to drive us and inspire us in our continued efforts for the cause of peace.”
What is MINUSMA:
The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) was established on 25th April 2013 by Security Council resolution 2100. Its primary objectives are to support political processes in Mali and undertake various security-related tasks. The Mission's key responsibilities include assisting the transitional authorities of Mali in stabilizing the country and implementing the transitional roadmap.
In a unanimous decision on 25th June 2014 (resolution 2164), the Council further defined MINUSMA's focus areas, which include ensuring security, stabilization, and the protection of civilians. Additionally, the Mission is mandated to support national political dialogue and reconciliation efforts, aid in the reestablishment of State authority, facilitate the rebuilding of the security sector and promote and protect human rights within the country.
