II. Addressing the civilian capacity gap in peace operations

Chapter:

3. Civilian roles in peace operations

Source:

SIPRI Yearbook 2010

Author(s):

Sharon Wiharta, Stephanie Blair

In the past decade peace operations have taken on a more multidimensional characteristic, integrating the political, humanitarian, development and military dimensions. Thus, a typical multidimensional peace operation is usually mandated to perform a variety of tasks to assist the host country’s transition from conflict to sustainable peace. Peace operation mandates now routinely include basic civilian activities, such as demobilization, disarmament and reintegration (DDR); security sector reform (SSR); public information; rule of law; law and order; justice; human rights; humanitarian relief and rehabilitation; supporting the return of refugees and internally displaced persons; elections; constitutional support and institutional reform and capacity building. For many of these activities, the deployment of troops is neither appropriate nor relevant. Moreover, the functions require specific expertise that is predominantly found in the civilian sphere.