The word peacekeeping operation is spelled as /piːs-kiː-pɪŋ ˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/. The first syllable is pronounced as /piːs/ where the vowel sound is elongated. The second syllable is pronounced as /kiː/ where the vowel sound is also elongated. The word "keeping" is spelled as "kiːpɪŋ", where the "i" sound is pronounced as "ee". The last syllable "operation" is commonly spelled as it sounds; it is spelled as /ˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/, with the emphasis on the second syllable.
Peacekeeping operation refers to a carefully planned and executed intervention conducted by international organizations, such as the United Nations (UN), to address conflict situations and maintain peace in areas affected by armed conflict or political instability. It involves the deployment of military, police, and civilian personnel from multiple countries to monitor and support the implementation of peace agreements, facilitate negotiations, and promote stability, security, and reconciliation among conflicting parties.
Peacekeeping operations are primarily undertaken in situations where there is a cease-fire or a truce between warring parties, but tensions persist, and the risk of violence resurfacing remains high. The main objectives of peacekeeping operations are to prevent the resumption of hostilities, protect civilians, assist in the disarmament and demobilization of combatants, foster the rule of law, and promote human rights.
These operations are characterized by impartiality, consent of the parties involved, and non-use of force, except in cases of self-defense and protection of civilians. Maintaining neutrality and objectivity is crucial for peacekeepers to gain the trust and cooperation of all parties and be perceived as honest brokers.
Peacekeeping operations can include a range of activities such as patrolling, monitoring, and reporting on cease-fire violations, facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid, supporting the conduct of elections, and assisting in the rebuilding of institutions. The success of peacekeeping operations is contingent upon the cooperation of all parties involved, the willingness of conflicting parties to resolve their differences peacefully, and the availability of adequate resources and support from the international community.
The word "peacekeeping operation" combines the terms "peacekeeping" and "operation".
The term "peacekeeping" originated in the mid-20th century, around the time of the establishment of the United Nations (UN). It consists of two parts: "peace" and "keeping". "Peace" refers to the state of harmony, tranquility, and absence of warfare or conflict. It stems from the Latin word "pax" meaning "peace". "Keeping" is derived from the Old English word "cepan" which means "to take care of" or "to guard".
The term "operation" comes from the Latin word "operatio" which means "a working" or "activity". It refers to a planned, coordinated series of actions or activities to achieve a specific goal.