An assessment of the constraints of United Nations peacekeeping operations in Abyei: Sudan/South Sudan.

Abstract

Concerned by the absence of peace in Abyei, yet in the presence of the United Nations peacekeepers for almost a decade, the researcher conducted this study with the aim to assess the constraints of UNPKO in Abyei with a view to improve its efficacy. To achieve the research objectives, data were collected from documents such as UN reports and UN Security Council Resolutions, and key informants drawn from the former and current UNISFA peacekeepers as well as from the conflicting parties at national and local levels, selected using purposive and snowball sampling methods. Data collected from sources through face to face and online interviews, and questionnaires, was thematically coded, presented using verbatim quotes, discussed in relation to reviewed literature, and analysed through the lenses of neo-liberalism theory. The data showed a barrage of constraints that affected the efficacy of UNPKO in Abyei. There were both merits and demerits of using UN peacekeepers from only one Troop Contributing Country (Ethiopia) in Abyei peacekeeping operations. However, the demerits outweighed the merits hence the conclusion that the deployment of Ethiopian troops in Abyei was only effective in stabilizing the conflict but not in the full attainment of the peace and security. The impact of UNISFA’s partnership with local actors, the JCPC and the CPC/JPC, in peacebuilding activities was hampered by numerous constraints. The UN peacekeepers were not so effective in the PoC as exemplified by attacks on civilians. The constraints noted were interlinked, and they need to be addressed if UNISFA has to gain its respect as a peacekeeping entity. Temporary measures that can be taken to mitigate the effects of the noted constraints includes the deployment of a multinational troops in Abyei and the deployment of the Formed Police Units as a matter of urgency. AU should facilitate the attainment of the final political status for Abyei by the national actors, for without it, most of the constraints will be hard to address, though their effects can be minimized by temporary measures. In light of the argument proffered in this dissertation, the researcher suggested that further study be done in assessing the constraints hindering the realization of the final political status of Abyei. Lastly, it is prudent to note that even though UNISFA was not so effective in preserving peace and security in Abyei, there remained no other substitute for its services, hence the need to address the constraints in haste and improve its peacekeeping efficacy.