Peacekeeping operations are at the heart of the work of the United Nations. Today, they are more complex and diverse, working in increasingly difficult environments and in situations that can suddenly change. In order to meet that reality and given the fact that security, development and the rule of law are intrinsically linked, the great majority of peacekeeping operations are now multidimensional. As a result, the mandates of peacekeeping operations may now include, in particular, strengthening rule-of-law institutions, security and defence sector reform, the protection of civilians, particularly children affected by armed conflict, the protection and promotion of human rights, combating sexual violence and the support of inclusive political processes, such as establishing the necessary security conditions for the provision of humanitarian assistance.
It is clear that no lasting peace can be achieved unless we address the root causes of a conflict from the outset. The crises in the Sahel and the Horn of Africa make that evident every day. In our view, including all sectors of a population, in particular the most vulnerable groups, such as women, in peacekeeping and peacebuilding operations is the best way to prevent, in both the short and the long terms, the resurgence of the frustrations that can reignite a conflict. Luxembourg has therefore contributed to the efforts of the Department of Peacekeeping Operations to increase women's participation in political processes, especially in Haiti, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan and Timor-Leste.
The Council is right to underline the importance of deploying qualified and experienced peacekeepers, with all the necessary skills, including language skills, and who respect the Organization's zero-tolerance policy with respect to misconduct. Sexual exploitation and abuse must not be tolerated. On the other hand, every measure should be taken to ensure the safety and security of deployed personnel. Luxembourg strongly condemns any attack on United Nations peacekeeping personnel.