153 states back move to tackle crimes against UN peacekeepers

Wire excerpt

WASHINGTON: The UN Security Council on Tuesday unanimously adopted a Pakistan- and Denmark-sponsored resolution to strengthen accountability for crimes committed against United Nations peacekeepers, following weeks of negotiations, and with the backing of a record 153 UN member states. The resolution, adopted by all 15 members of the Security Council, condemns attacks against UN peacekeepers, underscores that such attacks may constitute war crimes, and calls on governments to promptly investigate and prosecute those responsible. It also seeks stronger cooperation between host countries, the United Nations and troop-contributing nations to end impunity for attacks on peacekeeping personnel. Pakistan is one of the world’s largest and longest-serving contributors to UN peacekeeping operations. More than 183 Pakistani peacekeepers have lost their lives while serving under the UN flag, giving Islamabad a leading role in efforts to strengthen the protection of peacekeepers and ensure accountability for attacks against them. The 153 co-sponsors represent the highest level of support ever received by a UNSC resolution. Pakistan-led resolution aims at strengthening accountability for cri…