The Impact of UN Peacekeeping Mandates on Local Security: A Comparative Analysis of MINUSCA Operations in the Central African Republic

Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies | Vol. 12, No. 7, July 2021 | pp. 55–63

DOI: 10.46882/2021/GJPCS/120701

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: The Impact of UN Peacekeeping Mandates on Local Security: A Comparative Analysis of MINUSCA Operations in the Central African Republic

Authors: Jean-Louis Dupont¹, Marie-Therese Haddad²

Authors’ Affiliations: ¹Centre de Recherches Internationales, Sciences Po, Paris, France; ²Department of Conflict and Development Studies, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium

Abstract:
The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) operates within an asymmetric security environment where peacekeepers face fluid alignments of non-state rebel groups. This paper evaluates the operational effectiveness of MINUSCA's civilian protection mandate, focusing on the structural limits of decentralized versus centralized force deployments from 2018 to 2020. Drawing on field data and key informant interviews with 44 local community leaders and international aid workers, we analyze the tactical constraints limiting UN deployments. The findings reveal that while centralized military deployments protect immediate urban centers, they leave remote diamond-mining regions exposed to predatory militia raids. Statistical analysis indicates that mining zones dependent on distant static peacekeeping garrisons report a 48% higher rate of rural civilian displacements following localized skirmishes. The study demonstrates that a risk-averse command culture, combined with severe vehicle maintenance backlogs, prevents proactive patrolling beyond major cities. We conclude that enhancing civilian safety requires transforming peacekeeping frameworks to prioritize highly mobile, decentralized tactical units.

Keywords: MINUSCA; Peacekeeping Operations; Protection of Civilians; Central African Republic; Asymmetric Warfare; Rebel Groups

Manuscript Timeline: Received: April 15, 2020; Revised: July 05, 2020; Accepted: September 18, 2020; Published: July 18, 2021

Citation: Dupont, J. L., & Haddad, M. T. (2021). The Impact of UN Peacekeeping Mandates on Local Security: A Comparative Analysis of MINUSCA Operations in the Central African Republic. Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, 12(7), 55–63. DOI: 10.46882/2021/GJPCS/120701

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