T. T. KOCHARYAN, Colonel, Doctor of Political Science, Professor, Deputy Head in Education and Research, NDRU, MOD, RA – Head, INSS;
M. A. SHIRINYAN, Major General (Ret.) of the RA Armed Forces

SUMMARY

At the current stage of international geopolitical and geostrategic processes, peacekeeping operations are the tools for collective security policy that help localize conflicts and exert a deterrent effect in sensitive areas of military and political tension. Peacekeeping missions, in particular, the operations carried out under the auspices of the UN, showcase their significant potential for stabilizing the normal living of post-conflict societies, creating prerequisites for political dialogue, and implementing humanitarian activities. In line with it, efforts aimed at facilitating political dialogue between parties to a conflict in complex military-political, socioeconomic, and public-governmental environment, building sustainable systems of public administration, implementing measures to protect human rights, and disarming and reintegrating former combatants require a rational combination of military and diplomatic components.

In addition to the UN, currently, NATO, the European Union, the African Union, and other international organizations are involved in the processes of regulating relations and establishing peace between states in certain regions. In this regard, it is of key importance to highlight that a clearly and legitimately formulated mandate, the international community support, and a long-term, impartial strategy remain crucial prerequisites for the mission success. Alternatively, poor coordination, politicization of tasks, or reliance on the interests of a single state can significantly reduce the effectiveness of efforts and actions taken.

On its part, the Republic of Armenia does contribute to the development of international peacekeeping. Peacekeeping units of the Armenian Armed Forces have repeatedly been engaged in international peacekeeping operations, upholding Armenia reputable as an active player in the international security system and a reliable subject in international cooperation.