Over the last twelve months the MENA region has, once again, captivated the attention of world powers, international organizations and the populace at large. This has led to many discussions and the general inflation of public opinions across the continents.
“Spreading good governance, supporting social and political reform, dealing with corruption and abuse of power, establishing the rule of law and protecting human rights are the best means of strengthening the international order.”[1] Taken from the European Security Strategy Framework, this quote clearly illustrates the aims and priorities of the EU in its peacekeeping missions and operations, but when it comes to translating this policy into actions, there are gaps that need to be fille
The UN Security Council’s decision to reduce the authorized troop for its Peacekeeping Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) came as no surprise. Following strong pressure from the White House to downsize its regular budget on peacekeeping operations, the UN saw no other alternative but to meet the US demands. This fact however might display an opportunity for the UN to reconsider its current peacekeeping framework in the DRC towards a more protection-oriented force.