UN Peace in Practice and the African Experience: Insights from Maj Gen Zia Ur Rehman HI(M), Retd

On 16 September 2025, the Peace Operations Department (CIPS) organized a guest lecture on the theme UN Peace in Practice and the African Experience. The session was delivered by Maj Gen Zia Ur Rehman HI(M), Retd, former Force Commander of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). The event was attended at the CIPS level, including participants of UNSOC 49, faculty, and students of both the Departments of Peace Operations (Pkt) and International Studies (DIS).

The Session opened with remarks from Principal NIPCONS, Maj Gen Zahid Mahmood HI(M), Retd. He welcomed the speaker and participants while emphasizing the importance of the CIPS Guest Lecture Series.

Maj Gen Zia Ur Rehman’s lecture traced the evolution of UN peacekeeping and highlighted the challenges of contemporary military diplomacy. He briefed on the shifting global dynamics, such as multipolarity, evolving definitions of terrorism, the rise of non-state actors, and the impact of drone and cyber warfare, which have complicated peace operations and revealed the limitations of existing UN frameworks. Drawing on his extensive experience in Africa, particularly in Congo and Western Sahara, he underlined the complexities of territorial disputes, competing interests, and multi-stakeholder involvement. He also highlighted Pakistan’s key role in making peace, rebuilding communities, and successfully concluding missions through its dedicated efforts.

Participants raised thought-provoking questions on the UN’s role in conflicts, hybrid warfare, accountability, policies regarding sexual violence, the role of women in peacekeeping and the organization’s future in conflict resolution. Maj Gen Zia Ur Rehman offered candid perspectives, addressing economic interests, stakeholder influence, and Pakistan’s peacekeeping legacy.

The event concluded with Principal NIPCONS, Maj Gen Zahid Mahmood, expressing gratitude to the guest speaker and presenting a souvenir as a gesture of appreciation. The session was highly engaging and significantly enhanced participants’ comprehension of the complexities and the evolving nature of United Nations peace operations.

Lecture Pictures:

UN Peace in Practice and the African Experience: Insights from Maj Gen Zia Ur Rehman HI(M), Retd