Peacekeeping operations
United Nations Peacekeeping helps countries torn by conflict create conditions for lasting peace. Today's multidimensional peacekeeping operations are called upon not only to maintain peace and security, but also to facilitate the political process, protect civilians, assist in the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of former combatants; support the organization of elections, protect and promote human rights and assist in restoring the rule of law.
The Department of Peace Operations (DPO) is dedicated to assisting the Member States and the Secretary-General in their efforts to maintain international peace and security. DPO provides political and executive direction to UN peacekeeping operations around the world and maintains contact with the Security Council, troop and financial contributors, and parties to the conflict in the implementation of Security Council mandates.
Special political missions and other presences
Special political missions are UN civilian missions supporting conflict prevention, mediation, peacemaking and peacebuilding around the world. Established through a range of mandates, special political missions help advance political dialogue and reconciliation, facilitate credible electoral processes, monitor human rights, strengthen rule-of-law institutions, and coordinate international assistance in fragile or transitional contexts.
The Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) leads United Nations efforts to prevent and resolve conflict and build lasting peace. DPPA leads United Nations efforts to advance peace initiatives, provides mediation support, strengthens political transition and peacebuilding processes, and supports Member States in electoral assistance.
Support offices
United Nations Support Offices are Security Council mandated missions providing logistical and operational support to United Nations and regional missions, authorized multinational forces, and national security institutions in joint operations with the mandated force. They provide rations, medical care, transportation, strategic communications, and troop rotation, applying the human rights due diligence policy and contributing to peace, security and stability in the host country and region.
The Department of Operational Support (DOS)delivers advisory, business, operational and transactional support to more than 200 United Nations Secretariat entities, exercising delegated authority where required. DOS provides human resources and health care; supply chain management and support for uniformed capabilities; operational planning for start-up, transitions and liquidation; United Nations Headquarters campus services; and information and communications technology.
