New York, 25 September 2018
Allow me to commend the Secretary-General for this important initiative to reform the peace and security pillar of the United Nations and renew our commitment to effective peacekeeping.
For nearly 70 years, the United Nations has worked to protect civilians and safeguard the transition from war to peace all over the world. The majority of troops have served very honourably, and they deserve our gratitude and respect, even as we uncompromisingly deal with the failures that have resulted in crimes.
In the face of new threats and challenges, a collective effort is needed to ensure the effectiveness and integrity of peacekeeping. In an ideal world, we would not need peacekeepers. But so long as we do, let’s make sure they are deployed in support of a clear political process, as highlighted by the Secretary-General.
This means having the right mandates, without detrimental caveats, as well the resources and equipment needed to get the job done. Close collaboration with host countries and strong multi-level partnerships are indispensable.
The partnership with Africa is central. Our continent is among the biggest troop contributors, but also the host of the largest share of peacekeeping missions. To manage this burden, the United Nations and the African Union must collaborate closely, including by ensuring stable funding for African Union-mandated peace support operations.
The Action for Peacekeeping Initiative is a very timely and comprehensive framework for making peacekeeping fit-for-purpose. Rwanda fully endorses the Declaration of Shared Commitments and looks forward to working together on this basis going forward, and I thank you.