United Nations peacekeeping handbook for junior ranks

United Nations peacekeeping is growing in importance. In recent years, the number of United Nations peacekeeping operations has increased dramatically, accompanied by an increase in the number of peacekeeping personnel in the field and the range of tasks for which they are responsible. Peacekeeping is no longer primarily a military concern, but
has become more and more multi-dimensional, employing an increasing number of civilian personnel, such as civilian police, human rights and election monitors, humanitarian assistance personnel, and other components. Moreover, peacekeeping has also become more multinational, with an increasing number of Member States contributing personnel to peace-keeping activities.
The expansion in both the scope and complexity of United Nations peace-keeping has underscored the importance of training and preparation for future peacekeepers at all ranks. However, this Handbook is intended for use by peacekeepers at the junior ranks level who have been selected to participate in a peacekeeping mission, and who will be actively involved at the ground level of peacekeeping. It should be used to supplement national training. This document is not meant to supplant military handbooks, but to provide a training checklist only. Peacekeepers, both military and civilian, work closely with colleagues from diverse nationalities and cultural backgrounds, as well as with those with various levels of training and experience. Therefore, it is important for all peacekeeping personnel to share the same understanding and knowledge of the rules and guidelines of the United Nations.