Víctor Casanova Abós

The difficulties inherent in the liquidation and reconfiguration of the UN presence in Mali will be exacerbated by the lack of preparation and tension with the host government. A peacekeeping transition that mitigates the risks to civilians to the greatest extent possible is the UN’s best chance to continue implementing the principles of the Charter. Significant strides have been made in developing an understanding that the protection of civilians is integral to peacekeeping.

On June 30, the United Nations Security Council terminated the mandate of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), following a request by the Malian authorities. Resolution 2690, which was adopted unanimously, established specific timelines for the drawdown, withdrawal, and liquidation of the mission. While the abruptness of the request took many member states by surprise, it followed a period of growing tension between the mission and the Malian authorities.