July 6th, 2011 by Janina Pescinski
Pressure France and the UK to Ensure Effective Protection for Civilians
The United Nations Security Council is voting this week to establish a new peacekeeping mission in the soon-to-be independent Republic of South Sudan. With more than 1,800 deaths due to rebel and tribal violence throughout South Sudan so far this year, the need for a peacekeeping force that is capable of protecting civilians is great.
The current draft of the resolution authorizing the new United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) includes a Chapter 7 mandate, which equips the UN Mission with the power to take measures to maintain peace. A report issued by the Secretary General in June recommends a peacekeeping force of 7,000. However, we’re hearing reports that France and the United Kingdom are seeking to cut the number to around 3,000-4,000 troops. Without the recommended 7,000 troops the peacekeeping mission will not be able to effectively engage in civilian protection activities.
Take Action Today
Your help is needed to put pressure on France and the United Kingdom to authorize 7,000 troops for UNMISS under the Chapter 7 mandate. You can help by contacting the French and British Missions to the UN now! Contact information is included below. You can choose whichever method of outreach works best for you.
Sample message: I’m an American citizen concerned about civilian protection in South Sudan. I’m contacting you to encourage your country to support the authorization of 7,000 troops for the new peacekeeping mission in South Sudan.
UN peacekeepers in Sudan. (Photo: Albert Gonzalez Farran / UNAMID)
French Mission to the UN
Call: (212) 702-4900
Email: france@franceonu.org
Twitter: @franceonu
UK Mission to the UN
Call: (212) 745-9200
Email: UK@UN.int
Twitter: @UKUN_NewYork
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UN peacekeepers in Sudan. (Photo: Albert Gonzalez Farran / UNAMID)