Context
African-led peacekeeping missions, including AMISOM, ECOWAS operations, and various UN-mandated forces, play central roles in managing conflicts. Understanding their effectiveness and legitimacy is critical for supporting durable peace.
Effectiveness Measures
Peacekeeping success should be measured not just by 'keeping peace' (preventing large-scale violence) but by supporting political solutions, protecting civilians, and enabling sustainable reconstruction.
Local Legitimacy
Communities' trust in peacekeepers depends on: visible protection of civilians; impartial conduct; cultural sensitivity; and accountability for misconduct. When peacekeepers engage in sexual exploitation or excessive force, legitimacy erodes rapidly.
Lessons from Operations
AMISOM's presence in Somalia has had mixed impacts: some security improvements, but also serious concerns about human rights violations. More locally-embedded, civilian-led approaches may offer advantages.
Recommendations
Peacekeeping operations should prioritize: civilian protection mandates with resources to match; rigorous vetting and training of personnel; community engagement and accountability mechanisms; integration with political peace processes.