What is Peacekeeping?

Peacekeeping, as defined by the United Nations, is a broad term encompassing operations "designed to preserve the peace, however fragile, where fighting has been halted, and to assist in implementing agreements achieved by the peacemakers." In recent years peacekeeping operations authorized by the UN, the EU, the AU, and a range of other regional actors, have worked to support and implement the terms of ceasefires and peace agreements, support elections, create safe space for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and build government capacity. Critically, peacekeeping operations have also been charged with the protection of civilians under threat of violence in the context of armed conflict.

Why is the Partnership for Effective Peacekeeping (PEP) interested in strengthening international peacekeeping operations?

Because effective peacekeeping operations are critical to establishing security in volatile regions of the world and for protecting people from violence, genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity. Simply put, peacekeepers protect people from harm.

Who participates in the PEP?

Participants include congressional staff and government officials, advocacy organizations, human rights organizations, operational NGOs, think tanks, university professors and students, and private security contractors.

Who funds the PEP?

The PEP is supported by grants from the Better World Campaign and the Compton Foundation.

Refugees International, Better World Campaign, and Citizens for Global Solutions would like to express their gratitude for the generous support offered by these organizations in support of the mission of the PEP.

How often are PEP forums held?

The PEP holds monthly public forums to discuss one particular issue or topic of interest of relevance to the group. Generally, forums are held on the second Tuesday of each month at the Henry L. Stimson Center in Washington, DC.

Are PEP forums open to the public?

Yes, most PEP forums are open to the public.

Are they open to the press?

Yes, unless stated otherwise on the invitation. Some events are held off-the-record.