UN Security Council adopts resolution on crimes against peacekeepers

WASHINGTON: The United Nations Security Council on Tuesday unanimously approved a Pakistan and Denmark sponsored resolution aimed at strengthening accountability for crimes committed against UN peacekeepers, following weeks of negotiations and with the backing of 153 UN member states.

The resolution was adopted by all 15 members of the council. It condemns attacks on UN peacekeepers, says such attacks may amount to war crimes, and urges governments to swiftly investigate and prosecute those responsible. It also calls for closer cooperation among host countries, the United Nations and troop-contributing states to address impunity for attacks on peacekeeping personnel.

The 153 co-sponsors represent the highest level of support ever received by a UN Security Council resolution. While only Security Council members can vote on a resolution, non-members can formally co-sponsor a draft before it is put to a vote.

Pakistan and Denmark led the initiative

Pakistan and Denmark, which made peacekeeping a shared priority during their 2025-2026 terms on the Security Council, prepared the draft amid rising concern over attacks on UN personnel, including the increasing use of drones and other advanced weapons in conflict zones.

Presenting the resolution, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, thanked council members for supporting the measure and praised Denmark for what he described as a strong partnership as the council's peacekeeping duo.

He also thanked the 153 member states that backed the text and said the level of support sent a clear message in favour of UN peacekeeping. “The Council stands solidly and resolutely behind the peacekeepers that are serving the cause of international peace under its mandates,” Ambassador Asim said. “There will be no impunity for attacks against UN peacekeepers and the perpetrators of such crimes will be held to account.”

Pakistan is among the world's largest and longest-serving contributors to UN peacekeeping missions. More than 183 Pakistani peacekeepers have been killed while serving under the UN flag, giving Islamabad a prominent role in efforts to improve protections for peacekeepers and push for accountability in attacks against them.

Changes made during negotiations

Negotiations on the resolution continued for nearly a month. A proposal that would have allowed UN peacekeeping missions to investigate attacks was changed after several council members raised concerns related to host-state sovereignty.

The final version instead asks missions to create prompt factual records of incidents to support national investigations. Another proposal to establish a Special Envoy on Accountability for Crimes Against Peacekeepers was also removed during talks.

In place of that proposal, Secretary-General António Guterres will appoint an existing senior UN official to coordinate efforts to improve accountability. The resolution also asks the secretary-general to submit an initial report within 120 days setting out options for strengthening accountability, followed by annual reports.

Describing the resolution as a tribute to peacekeepers serving worldwide, Ambassador Asim said accountability was essential for justice, deterrence and the safety of Blue Helmets. “Accountability is essential for justice, deterrence, and the safety and security of all Blue Helmets, and the Security Council will make sure that it is delivered. This important resolution signifies our highest tribute to all peacekeepers serving under the UN flag.”