Global South can lead Ukraine peace mission

Source: The post Global South can lead Ukraine peace mission has been created, based on the article “A case for the Global South in securing Ukraine peace” published in “The Hindu” on 5 April 2025. Global South can lead Ukraine peace mission. 

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Context: As the war in Ukraine approaches a fragile ceasefire, maritime and energy truces brokered in Riyadh signal a possible halt in hostilities. This development has sparked debate over who should oversee a peacekeeping operation. Western powers have proposed a European-led force. However, concerns about neutrality and strong Russian opposition have led to growing calls for a UN-backed mission led by the Global South.

Reason for the peacekeeping mission in Ukraine

1. Fragile Ceasefire: The conflict, now in its fourth year, is nearing a ceasefire, with truces brokered in Riyadh hinting at a possible cessation of hostilities.
2. Exhaustion of Both Sides: The prolonged, attritional nature of the war has worn down both parties, escalating the need for external intervention to maintain and solidify peace.
3. Precedents of Successful Negotiations: The recent Black Sea deal, following negotiations led by U.S. President Donald Trump, shows that diplomatic efforts can lead to substantial agreements.
4. Avoiding Further Escalation: Without a peacekeeping force, there is a high risk of the conflict escalating again or stalling the peace process.

European or NATO-Led Force Is Not Suitable

1. Strong Russian Opposition: Russia has rejected any NATO involvement, seeing it as a threat and a possible trigger for renewed conflict.
2. Public Resistance in Europe: European leaders support peacekeeping, but public opinion is against troop deployment. For instance, a majority of French citizens opposed Macron’s plan to send troops.
3. Lack of Neutrality: A European-led force is seen by Russia as a NATO front, which could worsen tensions rather than reduce them.
4. Logistical and Financial Limitations: Without guaranteed U.S. support, Europe may struggle to sustain a long-term mission in a complex setting like Ukraine.

Global South a better alternative for peacekeeping

1. Neutrality: Countries from Africa, Asia, and Latin America have largely stayed neutral in the conflict, gaining the trust of both Russia and Ukraine.
2. Diplomatic Balance: Prime Minister Modi’s interactions with both Putin and Zelenskyy illustrate this balanced diplomacy.
3. Peacekeeping Experience: The African Union has effectively managed missions in volatile regions like Sudan and Somalia.
4. Operational Expertise: BRICS countries like India, Brazil, and South Africa have a strong track record in UN missions, contributing significant manpower and resources.
5. Specialized Skills: Chile’s expertise in demining is crucial for post-conflict reconstruction in Ukraine.

For detailed information on India’s potential role in peace diplomacy for Ukraine read this article here

Way forward

1. Robust Ceasefire Agreement: A clear and enforceable ceasefire is fundamental to stabilizing the region.
2. Front Line Demarcation: Clearly defined conflict lines must be established through careful negotiation.
3. Support from the West: Financial and logistical backing from Western nations, especially the EU, is crucial to sustain the peacekeeping operations.
4. UN Approval: The mission must receive authorization from the UN Security Council to ensure legitimacy and global support.
5. Exclusion of NATO Troops: To maintain neutrality and avoid exacerbating tensions, NATO troops should not be part of the mission.
6. Inclusion of Female Peacekeepers: Drawing from India’s successful deployment of an all-women contingent in Liberia, incorporating female peacekeepers can enhance community trust and address sensitive issues effectively.

Question for practice:

Examine why a UN-backed peacekeeping mission led by the Global South is considered more suitable for Ukraine than a European or NATO-led force.