The Initiative for a United Nations Emergency Peace Service

Abstract

This chapter overviews the initiative for a UNEPS and the challenge of confronting an unreceptive political environment over the past 15 years. Clearly, an equitable and inclusive process matters, particularly when attempting a global peace initiative. Te impediments to a UNEPS may appear daunting and they’re unlikely to diminish without wider support. Tat may partially explain the serious scholarly contributions to UNEPS, as well as several recent efforts to favor UNEPS-lite or a less ambitious option. But in drawing on lessons learned from this and previous experience we should be able to clarify what works, and equally important, what doesn’t. This also informs next steps. At the forefront, it’s evident that further efforts will be needed to encourage new partners, forums and networks.