ABSTRACT
The immediate aftermath of the Cold War saw an unprecedented French commitment to peacekeeping and peace support operations, particularly under the auspices of the United Nations. Such a level and focus of commitment thereafter declined quite significantly. On the other hand, the same period bore witness to the opposite dynamic in German contributions to peacekeeping. After Constitutional limitations on participation were reinterpreted, Germany took a more assertive role in international military relations, including in peacekeeping and peace support. However, as there were limits to the French withdrawal from peacekeeping participation, there have similarly been limitations on the German will to contribute. Successive governments in each have determined participation (or otherwise) in accordance with their own perceptions of national interest. Indeed peacekeeping has become arguably little more than a diplomatic force multiplier - a device to enhance national standing on the international stage - which both France and Germany have sought to deploy to maximum effect.
