The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) announced this past Thursday the suspension of portions of its peacekeeping force in response to allegations of “serious misconduct”.
In a statement, MONUSCO outlined that precautionary measures are in place, consistent with the United Nations’ zero-tolerance policy regarding sexual exploitation, abuse, and other severe forms of misconduct. “MONUSCO ensures that all its personnel respect the highest standards of conduct and continue to commit to prevention efforts, realizing victims’ rights and dignity in the process,” the statement read.
A correlating post by the UN Peacekeeping account on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) reinforced, “the [United Nations] demands accountability, protects survivors, and works tirelessly to prevent future harm.”
While this is the recent development, serious misconduct, including sexual exploitation and abuse, corruption, financial mismanagement, and civilian protection failure among UN peacekeepers have historically been problematic. These cases have significantly impacted peacekeeping mission’s credibility and effectiveness in conflict-stricken regions such as the Central African Republic, Haiti, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The UN has taken these incidences seriously, enhancing accountability measures, conducting thorough investigations, and implementing preventive measures.
To deal with and prevent misconduct, the UN has employed steps to solidify accountability mechanisms and better the peacekeepers’ conduct. These measures comprise inquiries into allegations, disciplinary actions, and improved training on human rights and gender sensitivity, as well as misconduct prevention.
The UN also established the “Zero Tolerance Policy” concerning sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), acknowledging these offenses’ gravity and affirming commitment to their deterrence and response. Efforts are underway to ensure victims have access to support and justice, and that offenders are held accountable.
On October 10, the United Nations held a session on “Criminal Accountability of United Nations Officials on Mission Crucial to Uphold Organization’s Reputation, Fight Impunity” as outlined in documents A/78/248 and A/78/275. The UN Comprehensive Strategy on Assistance and Support to Victims of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse by United Nations Staff and Related Personnel has also been in place since 2006.
Additionally, the UN launched the Office of the Victims’ Rights Advocate, focusing on “the rights and dignity of victims of sexual exploitation and abuse by United Nations and related personnel at the forefront of the United Nation’s prevention and response efforts.”
The Special Coordinator for Improving the Response to Sexual Exploitation & Abuse, Christian Saunders, emphasized the need for an effective approach to PSEA and victim assistance during his mission in Congo earlier this month.