153 states back move to tackle crimes against UN peacekeepers
Why this matters: local context for readers following news across Pakistan and the region.
WASHINGTON: The UN Security Council on Tuesday unanimously adopted a Pakistan- and Denmark-sponsored resolution to strengthen accountability for crimes committed against United Nations peacekeepers, following weeks of negotiations, and with the backing of a record 153 UN member states. The resolution, adopted by all 15 members of the Security Council, condemns attacks against UN peacekeepers, underscores that such attacks may constitute war crimes, and calls on governments to promptly investigate and prosecute those responsible. It also seeks stronger cooperation between host countries, the United Nations and troop-contributing nations to end impunity for attacks on peacekeeping personnel. Pakistan is one of the world’s largest and longest-serving contributors to UN peacekeeping operations. More than 183 Pakistani peacekeepers have lost their lives while serving under the UN flag, giving Islamabad a leading role in efforts to strengthen the protection of peacekeepers and ensure accountability for attacks against them. The 153 co-sponsors represent the highest level of support ever received by a UNSC resolution. Pakistan-led resolution aims at strengthening accountability for crimes against peacekeeping forces While only the 15 Security Council members can cast a vote to adopt a resolution, non-Council members can formally co-sponsor the text before it is voted on. Once a draft is finalised, it is often circulated to the wider UN membership for additional co-sponsors before the formal vote takes place. Introducing the resolution, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, thanked Council members “for the consensual adoption of Resolution 2823 on Accountability for Crimes Against Peacekeepers” and praised Denmark for “our strong partnership as the Council’s ‘peacekeeping duo’.” He also expressed “deep appreciation and profound thanks” to the 153 member states that co-sponsored the measure, saying the record support “send