Press Release

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. needs to reassess its relationship with UN peacekeeping operations to help develop an effective method to protect civilians trapped in conflict, Refugees International said in a report released today. The report, Greater Expectations: UN Peacekeeping & Civilian Protection, recommends that the U.S. provide forces and assets, including strategic lift capacity and expert personnel, such as engineers, to help UN missions deploy quickly and completely. The U.S.

“Refugees International welcomes yesterday's Security Council presidential statement which re-affirms the need for clear, achievable UN peacekeeping mandates, earlier consultation with troop contributing countries and more sustained and coordinated political engagement in ongoing peacekeeping operations.  RI is pleased that the presidential statement reflects the recommendations that Refugees International made in recent Congressional testimony.  Throughout 2009, the Security Council has placed the improvement of peacekeeping missions at the top of its agenda, and yesterday’s debate

Washington, DC -- The Government of Chad should allow the current UN peacekeeping mission, MINURCAT, to remain in Chad and Central African Republic with existing troop levels through 2010, said Refugees International today. Although Chadian President Idriss Déby recently announced that MINURCAT’s mandate should not be renewed, RI urged the UN Security Council to work with the Government of Chad in order to renew the mandate. The UN Security Council is scheduled to have consultations on MINURCAT tomorrow.

Today, the Better World Campaign announced  the launch of www.UnitedInPeacekeeping.com, an innovative new website highlighting active United Nations peacekeeping missions around the globe and how they enhance American interests.

Washington, D.C. - America has a vital role to play in supporting UN peacekeepers' efforts to protect people during conflict, Refugees International said in a report released today. The Last Line of Defense: How Peacekeepers Can Better Protect Civilians draws on Refugees International's field visits and existing UN studies to outline the challenges peacekeepers face in providing security for people in conflict areas. The report identifies key steps the U.S.