Indonesia leads leveraging regional training partnerships to enhance peacekeeping

Ever wondered what really fuels the strength of UN Peacekeeping missions? Here’s a hint: it’s not money, troop numbers, or even the latest technology. 

The real secret weapon is partnership. It is the backbone of the United Nations (UN) and the force that empowers troop-contributing countries deploying to UN Peacekeeping missions. Since 2015, the UN Department of Operational Support’s Triangular Partnership Programme (TPP) has been vital in building the capacity of troop-contributing countries, including in the areas of engineering, medical services, and C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers (C4), Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR)) and camp security technologies.

Between 2022 and 2024, Indonesia hosted five engineering courses as part of the TPP’s training activities in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, involving trainees and trainers from 16 countries. It is part of an effort to leverage opportunities provided by both regional partnerships, the ASEAN, and UN initiatives such as the TPP.

Indonesia’s commitment to peacekeeping goes back to 1957. Today, Indonesia ranks as the world’s 5th largest provider of UN uniformed peacekeepers. 

Feedback from TPP trainees has been overwhelmingly positive – with participants considering the courses they attended highly valuable. “The training was very beneficial, fully achieving its goals while also offering a unique opportunity to learn about the cultures of other nations,” said one of the participants anonymously in a survey. “It created a unique learning environment that celebrated diversity and fostered respect among participants.”

Participants highlighted the course’s comprehensive approach, which combined theoretical knowledge with practical experience, focusing on safety, operational efficiencies, and opportunities to build international connections with other peacekeepers. 

Major General Taufik Budi Santoso, Commandant of the Peacekeeping Training Centre of the Indonesian armed forces, said: “The trainings provided through the Triangular Partnership Programme have significantly enhanced the operational and managerial skills of our participants. Indonesian graduates are now applying these skills and knowledge in their deployments, particularly in the UN mission in the Central African Republic, contributing effectively to peacekeeping efforts."

See this video for an inside look into the experiences of program alumni and participants!

Women peacekeepers

TPP trainers in this cycle included instructors from Brazil and Japan, who not only shared their expertise but also showcased the importance of enhancing the role, expertise, and potential for the deployment of women peacekeepers. 

Over the five trainings conducted, Japan’s Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) deployed nine women officers to TPP courses, while Brazil contributed one woman training officer.

The role of women in peacekeeping has become increasingly significant. Thirty years after the Beijing Declaration and approaching the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, the UN is actively working to enhance women’s access to peacekeeping training. As TPP-Brazilian trainer 1st Lieutenant Joana Leite said: “[The participation of women uniformed peacekeepers] is not only a matter of equity but also a strategic imperative for the effectiveness and success of peace operations.”

Women peacekeepers' participation enriches the peacekeeping force with diverse perspectives and skills, engaging with local communities, particularly in areas where traditional gender roles limit interactions with male peacekeepers. “Their presence helps build trust and rapport with local populations, facilitating more effective conflict resolution and humanitarian assistance,” said Ms Leite.

This is exemplified by Police First Sergeant Renita Rismayanti of Indonesia, who was honoured with the 2023 United Nations Woman Police Officer of the Year Award. Her achievement highlights how the participation and leadership of women in peacekeeping enhance our efforts in protection and peacebuilding.

As of November 2024, Cambodia has taken over the TPP hosting role in the ASEAN region, demonstrating support for a training model grounded in strong partnerships and increasing the participation of women peacekeepers. 

To learn more about the UN TPP, click here.