He outlined some of the biggest challenges to global peace, security and development, including the expansion of conflict in high-population areas, the rise of transnational organized crime and violent extremism.
The UN peacekeeping chief also highlighted the growing risks to climate and cyber insecurity as well as the greater need for national capacity building and comprehensive police reform. , while noting that there is a growing need for “unique and concrete policy responses”.
“We must therefore work collectively to ensure that the United Nations Police (UNPOL) is properly prepared, equipped and resourced to tackle them,” he stressed.
Main priorities
Mr. Lacroix outlined a strategic direction for UN policy in serving and protecting the populations where the ‘green helmets’ are stationed, starting with Peacekeeping Action, particularly in priority areas to the extent that the UN has designated A4P+.
This includes consistent political strategies deploying different resources and leveraging support to influence the political direction towards stability and good governance in the country with a mission to keep peace. .
Strengthening this synergy is at the heart of the second priority, which is greater strategic and operational integration between missions.
The third priority, focusing on competence and mindset, links pre-deployment training to the assigned duties of each Police Unit established within the missions.
Fourth, is to ensure the highest level of accountability for peacekeepers, which will improve safety and security.
UNPOL will continue to emphasize “zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse through increased pre-deployment and on-mission training” as a fifth priority, Mr. Lacroix said.
Switch to strategic communicationa sixth priority, he said the United Nations Police is working to increase its presence, including through new engagement on major social media platforms such as LinkedIn, as well as activities awareness raising and community-oriented policies.
And finally, in line with the seventh A4P+ priority, UNPOL will continue to improve cooperation with host countries during the transition.
Women and peace
Meanwhile, the Women, Peace and Security agenda is conveyed in all aspects of A4P+ and “remains fundamental to enhancing our overall effectiveness”, he affirmed with Council.
The head of the peacekeeping force said gender responsive policy efforts ensure that the security needs of women, men, girls and boys are taken into account, including through a strong network of gender advisors and gender police focal points.
He noted that UNPOL has achieved its gender equality target by 2025 and that women now top five out of nine police elements in UN peacekeeping operations.
UN photo / Gema Cortes
Following an attack in the Bandiagara region of Mali, the United Nations Police (UNPOL) is patrolling the area on foot and by vehicle.
Tools for peace
Describing A4P+ as the UN’s vehicle for enhanced peacekeeping, Mr. Lacroix said that through it, “we are better placed to address today’s challenges to peace and security and ultimately to peace.” is to improve the lives of those we serve.”
Finally, he expressed gratitude for the Council’s unwavering support, including the contribution of highly qualified police officers to the peaceful service of the United Nations.
