Key Points

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi has raised serious concerns about the current state of global peacekeeping. He highlighted that shifting power dynamics are undermining UN consensus and cohesive action. The general pointed to 56 active conflicts and disruptive technologies creating unprecedented challenges. India, as one of the largest peacekeeping contributors, is hosting a major international conclave to address these issues.

Key Points: COAS Gen Upendra Dwivedi Warns UN Peacekeeping Faces Unprecedented Challenges

  • Over 56 active conflicts involving 19 nations straining global peacekeeping missions
  • Disruptive technologies and hybrid warfare blurring traditional conflict boundaries
  • India has deployed 300,000 personnel across 51 UN peacekeeping missions
  • UNTCC Conclave aims to strengthen cooperation through technology and dialogue
  • Growing influence of non-state actors complicating international peace efforts
  • India advocates for greater troop contributor voice in UN decision-making
3 min read

Shifting geopolitical currents underpin UN action: COAS Gen Upendra Dwivedi highlights challenges to global peacekeeping

Indian Army Chief highlights 56 active conflicts, disruptive technologies straining UN consensus. Calls for unified global peacekeeping response amid shifting geopolitics.

"Peacekeeping today faces challenges of unprecedented scale and complexity - General Upendra Dwivedi"

New Delhi, October 14

Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi on Tuesday highlighted the challenges faced by global peacekeeping missions amid over 56 active conflicts involving 19 nations.

Flagging the concern over the global order, General Dwivedi noted that shifting power dynamics are harming the consensus in the United Nations, leading to a lack of cohesive action.

Addressing the United Nations Troop Contributing Countries' (UNTCC) Chiefs Conclave in New Delhi, General Dwivedi said, "Peacekeeping today faces challenges of unprecedented scale and complexity. The global order is almost an inflexion point marked by over 56 active conflicts and the involvement of nearly 19 nations."

He emphasised the disruptive technologies and the growing influence of non-state actors amid hybrid warfare, and called for a unified response from UN peacekeepers.

"The infusion of disruptive technologies, the growing influence of non-state actors, hybrid warfare and the scourge of disinformation have blurred the traditional boundaries of conflict. Shifting geopolitical currents strain the spirit of consensus that underpins cohesive United Nations action. Such realities demand more resilient, swift and unified responses that only peacekeepers working together can deliver," he said.

"A peacekeeper, apart from being a security provider, is a diplomat, a technology enthusiast, a nation builder in far-flung areas and also may be the only media for the flow of information in conflict zones. The blue helmet or casque blue can, in fact, be called the glue that binds a mission and facilitates the functioning of the other organs of the United Nations, as well as the NGOs," he added.

Highlighting India's role in global peacekeeping, General Dwivedi said that the nation has deployed about 3,00,000 personnel across 51 peacekeeping missions.

He said, "India, as one of the largest contributors to peacekeeping, has sent approximately 300,000 men and women across 51 missions out of the total 71 peacekeeping missions of the United Nations. This includes our deployments in Korea in 1950, the Congo in 1960, and the current deployment in 9 out of 11 ongoing missions. While our troops have served with unflinching resolve, we have also gained invaluable experience which we are always willing to share with everyone."

Echoing the Indian government's call for 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbukam', he said that India is a "friend to all."

"Hosting this conference in India is not only a privilege but also a reaffirmation of our shared determination to strengthen cooperation and carry forward the noble mission of global peace. It also reflects the Indian ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbukam- the word is one family and that of Vishwa Bandhu- India as a friend to all," he said.

New Delhi is hosting the United Nations Troop Contributing Countries' (UNTCC) Chiefs Conclave from October 14 to 16, 2025, bringing together senior military leadership of over 30 nations.

The conclave aims to reinforce collective commitment to global peace and security.

Deliberations during the Conclave will focus on strengthening peacekeeping cooperation through enhanced dialogue, interoperability and exchange of best practices; leveraging indigenous technology and Atmanirbhar innovations to make peacekeeping missions more resilient, cost-effective and future-ready; championing inclusivity and equity by advocating for a greater voice for troop contributing countries in UN decision-making structures and demonstrate India as a collaborative and a trusted partner to build capacities and capabilities towards shared responsibility for maintaining international peace, a press release by the Ministry of Defence said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
General Dwivedi is absolutely right about disruptive technologies and hybrid warfare. The UN needs to adapt quickly to these new challenges. India's experience can really help shape future peacekeeping strategies.
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Sarah B
While I appreciate India's peacekeeping efforts, I wonder if we're taking on too much responsibility while other permanent UNSC members contribute less. Shouldn't there be more equitable burden-sharing?
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Arjun K
Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - this ancient Indian philosophy is more relevant than ever in today's divided world. India leading by example in peacekeeping shows our commitment to global harmony. 🙏
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Michael C
The point about peacekeepers being diplomats and technology enthusiasts is crucial. Modern conflicts require multi-skilled personnel, not just soldiers. India seems to understand this well.
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Kavya N
Hosting this conference in Delhi is a proud moment for India. It shows our growing importance in global security matters. Hope this leads to concrete action plans for better peacekeeping coordination.
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Vikram M
56 active conflicts worldwide is alarming! The UN needs to be more effective in conflict resolution. India's call for unified response and sharing expertise is exactly what's needed right now.

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