The Significance of Pre-Deployment Training, Culture Tolerance and Impartiality in Reducing Conflicts during Peacekeeping Operations: Malaysian Experiences

Abstract

Cultural understanding is important in peacekeeping operations since it emphasizes on cooperation of various parties including the cooperation of the local community. Without cultural tolerance from both sides, the operations are difficult to run smoothly and effectively and in fact, this can also lead to a worsen situation, such as the armed conflict between the peacekeeping forces and the local community. Therefore, this study is carried out by using semi-structured interview of 25 officers who have been assigned under United Nations peacekeeping operations and it is centered on three parameters namely pre-deployment training, high level of tolerance and impartiality in discharging their duties. Most officers agree that these parameters are the most significant attributes that could reduce cultural based conflict in the assigned areas.