Introduction

This introduction provides an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book. The book analyzes the growing gap between the emerging practices and existing UN peacekeeping doctrine, exploring how it undermines the effectiveness of UN operations, and endangers lives. The transformation and diversification of peacekeeping missions makes it an urgent task to re-assess the existing UN peacekeeping doctrine, represented by the UN Capstone Doctrine published by the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO) and Department of Field Support (DFS) in 2008. The 2008 Capstone Doctrine grew out of the 2000 Brahimi reforms. The book proposes a new typology based upon a review of the core principles of UN peacekeeping—consent, impartiality, and non-use of force—in relation to core peacekeeping mandates: implementation of peace agreements, assisting the formation of new states, and protection of governments and civilians from insurgents.