Peace and Security

Contemporary approaches for tackling international peace and security issues require not only a coherent global approach, but also mutually reinforcing responses involving an effective United Nations system in tandem with strong regional organizations. We focus on strengthening United Nations peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts and on enhancing the effectiveness of military and civilian approaches to the protection of civilians.

Publications

Commentary

Peace and Security

INTERPOL: Challenges and Opportunities for the New Secretary General

William Lippert

November 2024

On 5 November 2024, INTERPOL elected Valdecy Urquiza of Brazil as its new Secretary General. Urquiza steps into a critical role, steering an organization that’s thrived amid global tensions but now faces fresh challenges from renewed power rivalries and complex war crime issues. As the first SG from the Global South, he must navigate INTERPOL’s commitment to neutrality in an increasingly polarized world.

Briefing

Peace and Security

A Fork in the Road? The Kazan Summit of the BRICS

Christian E. Rieck

October 2024

BRICS’ expansion with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE has heightened China’s influence, sparking tensions among members like Brazil and India wary of an anti-Western shift. This internal divide casts doubt on BRICS’ potential as an alternative global governance platform.

Analysis

Peace and Security

ECOWAS after the ‘Triple Withdrawal’ and the creation of the Alliance of Sahel States

Gerald Acho

October 2024

African nations have struggled for stability and growth amid political turmoil. While Regional Economic Communities (RECs) were designed to foster integration and security, challenges like limited funding persist. With Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger exiting ECOWAS over foreign influence concerns, the future of African alliances faces new uncertainty.

Commentary

Peace and Security

Rushing to Peace, Racing to War: The Challenge of a Just Settlement

Thaddée Toulouse

September 2024

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stresses the need for peace on Ukraine's terms, warning against rushed deals lacking robust security guarantees. Without such measures, Ukraine risks renewed Russian aggression, hindering reconstruction, stability, and European security, while strong international backing could ensure Ukraine's resilience and long-term deterrence.

Briefing

Peace and Security

Shattered Security: Gender And Coups In Guinea, Mali, And Burkina Faso

Gerald Acho

June 2024

Coups in West Africa, particularly in Guinea, Mali, and Burkina Faso, exacerbate gender inequalities, increasing women’s vulnerability to violence and instability. This policy brief explores these impacts, highlighting the need for targeted international responses and actionable measures to protect women and girls during and after political upheavals.