Why UN Peacekeeping Operations are Important to Us All

For many of us in the United States, we get to wake up every morning and complain that we aren’t ready to talk or engage in work until we have had that all important cup of coffee. We are fortunate enough to live, go to school, and work in a country that has not faced unprecedented levels of famine, disease, or war. Undoubtedly, we are not perfect and have our own unique set of problems for a democracy, but we are still blessed every day. Millions, however, do not have the luxury to complain about their coffee and are instead worried about providing the basic necessities for themselves and loved ones in order to make it through another day.

The United Nations is one of the few organizations capable of engaging directly in areas of conflict without the political turmoil of a specific nation’s military. With 16 peacekeeping operations worldwide, the UN is capable of providing the necessary assistance for member states to go from conflict to peace at a fraction of the cost of deploying U.S.-led forces into these regions. Fully contributing to the UN’s Peacekeeping operations is essential for not only the countries in conflict, but the United States as well.

Having a strong U.S. presence through our proportioned contribution to these operations shows that the United States will continue to “create a more secure, democratic, and prosperous world for the benefit of the American people and the international community” as stated by the motto of the US Department of State. It is our way of showing the international community that we are willing to engage in diplomatic efforts that keep our global interest in mind and benefit us all.

Fully contributing to the UN’s Peacekeeping operations is essential for not only the countries in conflict, but the United States as well.

Young people play a key role in encouraging our elected leaders to fully fund the United Nations and continue our contributions to peacekeeping operations world wide. Efforts from GenUN chapters across the nation have fostered an atmosphere of engagement and accountability between new voting constituents and their elected representatives. Multiple GenUN chapters located in the D.C., Maryland, Virginia (DMV) area have made countless visits to Capitol Hill to directly talk to their members of congress about the importance of maintaining strong U.S.-UN relationship.

Young people play a key role in encouraging our elected leaders to fully fund the United Nations and continue our contributions to peacekeeping operations world wide.

While visiting and speaking to a staffer or directly with a member of the House or Senate can be impactful, UN advocates can still have their voices heard by calling, sending an email, or writing a letter. Take action and advocate for global peacekeeping efforts with the Better World Campaign and UNA-USA.

May 29 is the International Day of UN Peacekeepers. Learn more here.

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