United Nations Command and Control of United States Peacekeepers; Fact or Fiction

Abstract

Abstract : This strategic research project examines the issue of United States military forces serving under the operational control of a United Nations Force Commander during peace operations. Current United States policy supports this practice; however, the United States never relinquishes command over its forces. Therefore, the current United States policy creates dual chains of command for United States forces participating in UN peace operations. In fact, due to concerns relating to public perception and force protection, the amount of control relinquished to the United Nations, in practice, is typically more restrictive than operational control. The author argues that current United States government policy regarding United Nations command and control of United States forces is too restrictive. This policy risks diminishing the United States commander's ability to effectively contribute to the mission's success. The methodology used in this paper includes a review of both United States and United Nations policies as they relate to the command and control of military forces. Additionally, the operational effect that this policy, and its implementation, have had is examined through three case studies; Somalia - UNOSOM II, Haiti - UNMIH, and Macedonia - UNPREDEP. Finally, recommendations are made to improve the implementation of current policy.