Cambodia has sent 355 peacekeepers, including 86 women, to South Sudan, the Central African Republic, and Lebanon for UN missions. This deployment replaces previous forces and will focus on humanitarian activities such as mine clearance and infrastructure projects. With this mission, Cambodia continues to build its role as a significant contributor to global peacekeeping efforts since joining in 2006.
On February 5, 2023, Cambodia dispatched a contingent of 355 peacekeepers, including 86 women, to engage in United Nations (UN) peacekeeping operations in South Sudan, the Central African Republic (CAR), and Lebanon. Major General Sem Ratana, who oversees the National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces, indicated that these troops would replace a previous deployment that recently concluded its one-year mission.
The specific roles assigned to these peacekeepers include 73 military police personnel stationed at the UN Mission in South Sudan, 98 explosive ordnance disposal experts at the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the CAR, and 184 engineering specialists allocated to the UN Interim Force in Lebanon.
During a ceremonial send-off in Phnom Penh, General Tea Seiha, Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, emphasized the peacekeepers’ commitment to humanitarian efforts including mine clearance, explosive ordnance disposal, and infrastructure development such as road and bridge engineering.
Cambodia initially participated in UN peacekeeping missions in 2006 and has since dispatched 9,826 troops in total, 857 of whom are women, across ten different countries. Currently, Cambodian personnel serve in South Sudan, the CAR, Lebanon, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The contributions of Cambodian peacekeepers have been recognized by UN officials for their courage and efficacy in enhancing global peace and security. Once a recipient of UN assistance, Cambodia has evolved into a prominent contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, particularly within ASEAN.
Cambodian deminers, part of the UN mine-action teams, have played a vital role in transforming hazardous areas filled with landmines into safe environments suitable for schools, hospitals, and agricultural use.
Cambodia’s involvement in UN peacekeeping missions demonstrates its transition from a country needing assistance to a significant contributor to global peace efforts. Since beginning operations in 2006, Cambodia has continually increased its peacekeeping deployments. The current mission includes addressing crucial tasks such as demining and infrastructure development, which support both humanitarian needs and broader stability in conflict-affected regions.
Cambodia’s recent deployment of 355 peacekeepers reflects its ongoing commitment to international stability and security. By focusing on mine clearance and engineering tasks, Cambodia not only supports the UN’s objectives but also showcases its growth from a recipient of aid to a key player in global peacekeeping efforts. The sustained contributions over years underscore the effectiveness and dedication of Cambodian peacekeepers on various international missions.
Original Source: pune.news