United Nations Peacekeeping: US Passing up a National Security Bargain

A growing financial crisis for United Nations peacekeeping is the result of the failure by the United States to appropriate enough money to meet its obligations. The US shortfall was $145 million in fiscal year 2005, and is around $375 million for the current fiscal year, leaving a total shortfall of approximately $525 million for UN peacekeeping. The problem is compounded by a US law that limits the US contribution to 25% of total UN peacekeeping costs, even though the US is assessed at slightly over 27%. The growing financial crisis may have dire consequences for UN peacekeeping efforts around the globe, leading to the possible closure or drastic reduction of certain missions.

The Bush Administration contends that after elections are held missions can be quickly and significantly downsized. For example, the 2007 budget request assumes that the peace operation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) can be cut nearly in half next year. But the DRC remains conflict-ridden and the government exercises little effective control over large parts of this vast country. Experience in numerous countries suggests that elections are but a first step on a long road that may lead to sustainable peace only with sustained help.

The Security Council has rejected the minimalist approach to peacekeeping missions favored by the US. But when it comes to closing or downsizing missions before such action makes practical sense, the Council has too often bowed to US pressure. Sierra Leone is still teetering on the edge of state failure, but UN peacekeepers left at the end of 2005. The Ivory Coast is close to civil war, but UN
peacekeepers may not stay. Plans for downsizing in Liberia and Haiti are mandated, even though both will need significant help for years to come.

The Bush Administration had a chance to address the financial shortfall for UN peacekeeping in the FY2006 Emergency Supplemental, but only asked for $68 million, leaving a $450 million hole. The problem will only grow worse, because the gap between expected UN peacekeeping needs and the funds requested for FY2007 suggest that an additional $400 million shortfall will be created next year. But beyond fixing the money problem, the US needs to get serious about supporting UN peacekeeping capabilities, developing the right approach to peacekeeping and peacebuilding, and providing the requisite resources to do the job effectively.

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