The “added benefit” – Female peacekeepers in UN peacekeeping missions

Abstract

Since the 1990s, the United Nations (UN) has advocated for an increased presence of female peacekeepers in peacekeeping missions to mitigate incidents of sexual violence against civilian populations. The rationale behind this initiative posits that women possess a unique capability to recognise and address the specific needs of fellow females while exerting a positive influence on their male colleagues. However, this dual role, encompassing both tending to local populations' needs and regulating the behaviour of male peacekeepers, places female peacekeepers under a double burden.This article evaluates the possible relationship between the proportion of female military personnel in peacekeeping missions and reported sexual violence cases. Through a comparative analysis of two missions, it explores the impact of female peacekeepers on local populations and trust in peacekeeping operations. This research addresses a significant gap in academic discourse, as the influence of women in peacekeeping is infrequently discussed, and scholarly opinions on their actual impact differ. The study employs a hybrid approach, combining qualitative small-N analysis and quantitative data. Despite observing a potential positive influence on reported sexual violence cases in the selected peacekeeping mission, the study underscores the limited actual impact of female peacekeepers. Importantly, the author contends that the current UN approach—simply deploying women to peacekeeping missions—fails to address the underlying issues rooted in military deployment, signalling a need for more comprehensive strategies to effect lasting change.