The head of UN Peacekeeping, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, addressed the UN Security Council, highlighting the critical role of UN Police (UNPOL) in peace operations at a time of declining financial resources and increasing operational pressures. He emphasized that UNPOL officers serve with professionalism and courage in challenging environments marked by insecurity, political volatility, and complex risks. These officers are essential for community engagement, institutional reform, and preventing criminal and intercommunal violence, particularly in high-density areas such as displacement camps.
Lacroix noted that peace operations are being asked to do more with fewer resources due to budget constraints, staff reductions, and the UN’s liquidity crisis. While cost-efficiency measures are necessary, he stressed that predictable and sustainable financing from Member States is vital for peacekeeping to fulfill its mandates effectively.
He also highlighted the Action for Peacekeeping (A4P+) initiative, which focuses on strengthening the safety, effectiveness, and impact of missions. Key priorities include upholding political solutions, integrating operations strategically, investing in capabilities, and deepening cooperation with host-state police. Lacroix underscored the importance of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda and noted that progress in women’s participation in UNPOL remains fragile amid budget cuts.
Recalling pledges made at the 2025 Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting in Berlin, he stressed the need for specialized roles, rapid deployment, and training to address emerging threats such as organized crime, cyber-enabled crime, climate-related insecurity, and misuse of technology. Lacroix concluded by urging sustained political unity, adequate resourcing, and continued support to equip UN Police for the challenges of tomorrow.
