UN peacekeeping is at a crossroads. From Lebanon to Mali and the Democratic Republic of Congo, peacekeepers face increasingly complex environments marked by asymmetric threats, protracted conflicts and political instability. With more than 70,000 personnel deployed across 11 missions, the demand for agile and well-resourced peace operations has never been greater. In response, the Berlin Ministerial brings together Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Interior Ministers to assess current challenges and chart a path forward.

The Federal Foreign Office and the Ministry of Defence are co-hosting the conference, which includes pledges to increase personnel, training, and logistical support, particularly in areas such as women’s participation, digital technologies and civilian protection.

Germany plays a central role in peacekeeping reform, both politically and financially. As the fourth-largest financial contributor to UN peacekeeping and the top donor of extrabudgetary resources, Germany underlines its commitment to international peace and security. The country is currently involved in five UN peacekeeping missions and one Special Political Mission, deploying military, police and civilian experts.

Beyond its operational role, Germany supports peacekeeping through bilateral stabilisation and capacity-building initiatives, such as mobile training teams and regional cooperation projects. Its strong engagement with the UN Peacebuilding Fund reinforces the link between peacekeeping, prevention, and sustainable development, a priority theme of the Berlin Ministerial.

Discussions at the conference emphasise the need to adapt peacekeeping to new realities. Delegates are focusing on enhancing mission safety, integrating new technologies, and increasing the meaningful participation of women in all aspects of peace operations. In line with the UN Action for Peacekeeping Plus (A4P+) agenda, the Ministerial aims to deliver tangible commitments that will shape the next decade of peacekeeping.

By hosting this high-level forum, Germany underscores its role as a driving force in strengthening multilateral solutions to today’s security challenges. As global crises intensify, the Berlin Peacekeeping Ministerial stands as a key milestone in redefining the tools of international peace and conflict resolution.

• https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/ministerium/presse/aktuelles/alle/2025/04/foreign-minister-meinl-reisinger-in-slovakia-neighbourly-dialogue-especially-vital-in-geopolitically-challenging-times https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/ministerium/presse/aktuelles/alle/2025/04/foreign-minister-meinl-reisinger-in-slovakia-neighbourly-dialogue-especially-vital-in-geopolitically-challenging-times