l’Algérie dénonce le fait que la MINURSO ne soit pas dotée d’un mandat relatif aux droits de l’homme
Title: Algeria’s Call for Human Rights Monitoring in UN Peacekeeping Missions
In a recent session at the United Nations in New York, Algeria’s Permanent Representative Amar Bendjama raised significant concerns regarding the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). He highlighted the mission’s lack of a human rights mandate, distinguishing it from other similar UN missions that incorporate human rights oversight. Bendjama expressed astonishment at the silence from certain nations about this issue and pointed out the apparent double standard in the UN’s treatment of various peacekeeping operations.
Bendjama remarked, "We have been repeatedly admonished by some partners on the importance of monitoring and reporting on human rights compliance, as well as adhering to international law, including humanitarian law. Yet, concerning MINURSO, we have been astonished by their silence, or even their opposition to our call for a human rights mandate." This statement was part of his address during a Security Council meeting focused on enhancing the adaptability of UN peacekeeping operations to meet new global realities.
Absence of Human Rights Mandate
The absence of a human rights component in MINURSO, according to Bendjama, sends a detrimental message, suggesting that the mission, unlike others in Africa, is expected to overlook human rights violations. He underscored that the inclusion of a robust human rights component in all UN peacekeeping operations is essential. Doing so would enhance the effectiveness of these missions by ensuring they can monitor and report violations on the ground.
In his broader comments about UN peacekeeping, Bendjama emphasized that Algeria views the discussion on the future direction of these operations as critical for both the Security Council and the international community. He noted the significant challenges facing UN peacekeeping operations today and stressed the need for reform. Bendjama further stated, "While we prepare for the upcoming Berlin Ministerial Conference on Peacekeeping in May, we need to seize every opportunity to forge a unified vision of the future of peacekeeping, particularly regarding its adaptability."
Need for Reform and Focused Mandates
Algeria believes that the existing UN peacekeeping operations have demonstrated inherent limitations and require substantial adjustments to respond effectively to contemporary challenges. Bendjama argued that beyond adding a human rights focus, the mandates of peacekeeping operations should be centered on foundational issues while remaining aligned with the mission’s original goals and clearly defined objectives.
He criticized the current trend of assigning overly broad mandates to UN missions, referring to them as "Christmas tree mandates." This approach can dilute the missions’ ability to perform targeted and effective operations, as they become burdened with excessive responsibilities.
Partnerships and Political Solutions
Bendjama also highlighted the importance of partnerships in enhancing the adaptability of UN peacekeeping operations. He called for strengthened cooperation between the UN and regional organizations, particularly the African Union, which he noted is a reliable partner in this context. He advocated for promoting political solutions and integrating peacebuilding dimensions into the mandates of UN peacekeeping missions.
Furthermore, Bendjama insisted that UN peacekeeping operations should champion dialogue, uphold international law, and respect the right to self-determination for peoples under foreign occupation. These elements are crucial for effective political efforts on the ground.
Algeria’s Commitment
In conclusion, Bendjama reaffirmed Algeria’s commitment to supporting the work of UN peacekeeping operations. He expressed Algeria’s readiness to contribute its expertise in maintaining international peace and security, indicating that Algeria stands prepared to engage constructively in efforts to enhance the efficacy of UN missions globally.
Overall, Algeria’s firm stance on ensuring human rights oversight within UN peacekeeping missions, along with its broader advocacy for reform, highlights the complexities and ongoing debates surrounding the effectiveness of international peacekeeping efforts in today’s context.
