Over 550 Indian peacekeepers in South Sudan awarded U.N. Medal of Honour

Why in News?

More than 550 Indian peacekeepers, including 53 women personnel, serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan were honoured for their dedication and commitment to protecting civilians and supporting peacebuilding efforts in conflict-affected South Sudan. 

About the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) 

• UNMISS was established in 2011 following the independence of South Sudan.
• It is one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world.
• The mission comprises approximately 12,000 peacekeepers drawn from more than 75 countries.

About United Nations Peacekeeping 

• The United Nations Security Council has primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security under the United Nations Charter.
• To fulfill this responsibility, the Security Council may establish peace operations.

• Although peacekeeping is not explicitly mentioned in the UN Charter, it has evolved into one of the UN’s most important tools for maintaining international peace and security.
• Three Fundamental Principles of UN Peacekeeping: Consent of the Parties; Impartiality and Non-Use of Force Except in Specific Circumstances.

First Peacekeeping Mission

• United Nations Peacekeeping began in 1948 when the Security Council authorized the deployment of military observers to the Middle East (UNTSO).
• This mission was known as the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization.
• UNTSO: The United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) is the first and oldest peacekeeping mission established by the United Nations. Established to monitor ceasefire agreements and armistice arrangements following the Arab-Israeli conflict. It remains the oldest active UN peacekeeping operation.

Sources: UN