Peacekeeping, Peace Enforcement, and the United States

For a military operation to be labeled a peacekeeping operation, the host government must its consent, the deployed force must be impartial, and the use of force must be restricted to self-defense. A peace enforcement operation, although it also has the consent of the host government, is willing to use force to impose a solution. Successful peacekeeping operations have clearly defined and attainable objectives, begin with a desire for peace among the conflicting parties, have the cooperation of all conflicting parties, and military leaders are given adequate time to plan the deployment of forces. Finally, successful peacekeeping operations create a buffer zone between conflicting parties. Peacekeeping is not a suitable mission for US military units. The US should seek ways other than by contributing troops to support the United Nations in its peacekeeping efforts. Peace enforcing is the more appropriate role for the United States. Working in conjunction with the United Nations and various regional organizations, the United States can support peacekeeping by helping to establish the conditions for peace.