2. Fact-finding missions prior to UN peacekeeping: Fact-finding missions play a crucial role in determining the necessity and feasibility of UN peacekeeping interventions. These missions gather essential information about the conflict’s dynamics, local conditions, potential challenges, and the willingness of parties to cooperate. They help in assessing the risks and potential impact of peacekeeping operations. Fact-finding missions can aid the UN in making informed decisions about whether to intervene, the scope of intervention, and the required resources.

3. “Contracting out” for peacekeeping: Contracting out peacekeeping operations involves hiring private security firms or military contractors to perform certain tasks within a peacekeeping mission. While there might be advantages like rapid deployment and specialized skills, there are also significant concerns. These include issues of accountability, transparency, and potential conflicts of interest. Contracting out can compromise the UN’s credibility and undermine its principles. It’s important to carefully weigh the positives against the negatives and establish clear guidelines for contracting out to ensure ethical and effective peacekeeping.

7. Negative views of women in peacekeeping: While there’s growing recognition of the positive role women play in peacekeeping, some negative views persist. Critics argue that women might be physically less suited for combat roles, potentially jeopardizing the safety of peacekeeping units. Concerns about cultural insensitivity might arise in conservative societies, where the presence of women in security roles could be seen as a challenge to traditional norms. Additionally, the integration of women could require additional resources for facilities and support, which might divert resources from other crucial areas.

8. Most important aspect of the Brahimi Report: The Brahimi Report, a landmark document in UN peacekeeping reform, identified the need for a shift from traditional peacekeeping to multidimensional operations. Its most important aspect is the emphasis on comprehensive approaches that combine military, political, humanitarian, and development efforts. This recognition of the complex nature of conflicts and the need for holistic responses has influenced contemporary peacekeeping strategies and interventions, aiming for more effective and sustainable outcomes.

9. Improvements in an ongoing PKO: In an ongoing peacekeeping operation, fostering stronger ties with local communities and engaging in community-based conflict resolution initiatives could enhance the mission’s effectiveness. Establishing collaborative relationships with local leaders, NGOs, and grassroots organizations can provide a deeper understanding of the conflict’s root causes and help tailor interventions accordingly. Moreover, a focus on capacity building within the host country’s security forces can contribute to the gradual transition of security responsibilities, promoting long-term stability.

Remember to integrate relevant course readings and primary sources to support your arguments, adhering to proper citation guidelines.