UNTCC Chief Conclave 2025

UNTCC Chief Conclave 2025

Why in News?

The UN Troop Contributing Countries (UNTCC) Chiefs’ Conclave 2025 was hosted by the Indian Army in New Delhi from 14 October to 16 October 2025, focused on strengthening mutual coordination among nations contributing troops to UN missions.

Highlights of the UN Troop Contributing Countries (UNTCC) Chiefs’ Conclave 2025

• Venue: The UNTCC Chiefs’ Conclave 2025 was held at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi from October 14 to 16, 2025.

• Motto: The conclave was guided by the Indian philosophy motto of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – “The world is one family.”

• Participation: The conclave saw the participation of military chiefs from 32 countries including France, Bangladesh, Brazil, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Vietnam, that contributed troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions. Notably, Pakistan and China were not invited to this event, aligning with India’s policy.

• Focus Areas: The discussions at the conclave centered on several key areas aimed at strengthening UN peacekeeping efforts:

• • Inclusive Decision-Making: Emphasizing the need for a stronger voice for troop-contributing nations in UN peacekeeping operations.
  • Safety of Peacekeepers: Addressing the importance of safeguarding peacekeepers and ensuring their safety through realistic mandates.
  • Leveraging Indigenous Technologies: Exploring the use of indigenous and cost-effective technologies to enhance mission success.
  • Enhanced Interoperability and Training: Focusing on improved interoperability and training frameworks to prepare troops for complex environments.
  • Sustained Partnerships: Reinforcing partnerships rooted in trust, cooperation, and shared responsibility.
  • 4C Formula: Indian Defence Minister emphasized a “4C formula: Consultation, Cooperation, Coordination, and Capacity Building” to strengthen peacekeeping efforts.

What is the UNTCC Chiefs’ Conclave?

• About: The United Nations Troop Contributing Countries (UNTCC) Chiefs’ Conclave is a significant international forum that brings together military leaders from nations contributing troops to United Nations Peacekeeping Missions. The conclave serves as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of best practices among these countries.

• Origin: The inception of the UNTCC Chiefs’ Conclave traces back to the early 2000s. In June 2001, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 1353, which emphasized strengthening cooperation with troop-contributing countries in peacekeeping missions. This resolution laid the groundwork for regular consultations and interactions among these nations.

• • Objectives: The primary objectives of the UNTCC Chiefs’ Conclave are to: Enhance Cooperation, Address Operational Challenges, Promote Inclusivity, Share Best Practices and Advocate for Reform.

• Format: The conclave typically spans several days and is hosted by a member nation on a rotational basis. It involves high-level discussions, presentations, and workshops led by senior military officials and UN representatives. The conclave also includes field visits and demonstrations to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the host nation’s capabilities and contributions to peacekeeping.

Significance of United Nations Peacekeeping Missions

• Promoting Global Stability: United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions are essential for maintaining global stability. They help prevent conflicts from escalating and support countries in transitioning from war to peace. For instance, the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) played a crucial role in stabilizing the country after its civil war, leading to peaceful elections.

• Protecting Civilians: Since 1999, missions have been explicitly tasked with safeguarding individuals under threat. This responsibility includes preventing violence against vulnerable populations. In the Central African Republic, for example, the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission (MINUSCA) has been instrumental in protecting civilians amid ongoing conflicts.

• Facilitating Humanitarian Assistance: UN peacekeepers often serve as a bridge for humanitarian organizations to deliver aid in conflict zones. Their presence ensures the safe passage of relief supplies and the protection of aid workers. During the 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, peacekeepers provided critical support in containing the disease and delivering medical assistance.

• Supporting Sustainable Development: UN peacekeepers create conditions that are conducive to sustainable development. They assist in rebuilding infrastructure, promoting economic growth, and supporting education and healthcare systems. In Haiti, the UN Stabilization Mission contributed to the reconstruction of schools and hospitals following the 2010 earthquake.

India’s Contribution to UN Peacekeeping

• Since 1950, India has been a steadfast contributor to United Nations peacekeeping missions. Over the decades, nearly 300,000 Indian personnel have served in more than 50 UN missions across the globe. 
• As of January 2025, India ranks among the top contributors to UN peacekeeping operations. With over 5,300 personnel deployed, India plays a pivotal role in various missions worldwide.
• India has provided Level III hospitals in conflict zones, offering advanced medical care to peacekeepers and civilians alike. The India Level III Hospital in Goma, for instance, has been lauded for its exceptional medical services and humanitarian efforts.
• Indian officers have held significant leadership positions within UN peacekeeping missions. The country has provided 14 Force Commanders, 2 Military Advisors, and 1 Deputy Military Advisor. 
• India has been a pioneer in promoting gender inclusivity within peacekeeping forces. In 2007, India deployed the first all-female Formed Police Unit to the UN Mission in Liberia.
• On the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, India’s contributions were commended for professionalism, courage, and compassion. Two Indian soldiers were posthumously awarded the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal in 2023.
• India remains committed to its role in UN peacekeeping. The country’s ongoing participation in missions across regions like South Sudan, Lebanon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo reflects its dedication to fostering global peace and stability.

Other International Peacekeeping Efforts

• The African Union (AU) has been actively involved in peacekeeping efforts across the continent. In 2024, the AU transitioned its mission in Somalia from the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), aiming to support Somalia’s security sector reform and capacity building.
• The European Union has been engaged in various peace operations globally. As of 2024, the EU was conducting 24 ongoing civilian and military missions under its Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). These missions are deployed in regions such as Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, focusing on areas like border management, security sector reform, and capacity building.
• The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been enhancing its role in peacekeeping through training and capacity building. In June 2024, the 8th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Peacekeeping Experts’ Meeting was held, focusing on partnering in training to advance the performance and improve the safety.
• The United States has supported regional peacekeeping efforts through various initiatives. The U.S. has been involved in supporting peace operations in Africa through the Global Peace Operations Initiative (GPOI), aiming to enhance the capacity of partner countries and regional organizations to conduct peace operations. The U.S. has been involved in diplomatic efforts to support peace agreements, such as the ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia in 2024.