Special Operators: A Key Ingredient for Successful Peacekeeping Operations Management

Abstract

As an integral component of the Military Observer Mission Ecuador and Peru (MOMEP), 1995–99, Special Operations Forces (SOF) performed as a true confidence-building measure (CBM). They succeeded in changing the behaviour of states, helping to resolve a longstanding conflict. MOMEP consequently serves as an example of risk management and reduction measures that insure regional stability. Further, it is an example of a regional multi-national military peacekeeping effort (PKO), conducted by conventional forces from various nations with influence and guidance from SOF, that succeeded without the reliance upon the United Nations.