The use of force by the United Nations

Abstract

This article develops a framework for analysing the use of force by the United Nations. There are two basic modalities: direct use of force deployed and commanded by the UN, and indirect use of force carried out by one or more Member States so authorized by the Security Council. Six purposes for the use of UN‐authorized force are identified: peace enforcement, sanctions enforcement, self‐defence, protection of civilians, protection of humanitarian activities and intervention in civil conflicts. The political and operational questions which arise from each are discussed. In particular the analysis indicates that ‘mission creep’ should be avoided and there should be clarity about whether a situation requires peacekeeping or enforcement. Although a ‘halfway house’ between the two is not ruled out, certain conditions should be fulfilled before embarking on such missions.