Vietnam highlights important role of new technology in peacekeeping operations

Talking to the media on August 18 following an open debate by the UN Security Council (UNSC) regarding this issue, the Vietnamese diplomat said that peacekeeping forces are often targets in attacks carried out by terrorists and illegal armed groups. Frequently these groups will try to make use of new technology, including using flying objects such as drones to carry weapons.

He emphasised the need for peacekeepers forces to make use of new technology, with a particular focus on using gadgets and applications even more advanced than those used by hostile forces.

Furthermore, through the application of technology peacekeepers can perform their duties more effectively in a wide range of aspects, including information collection, analysis, early warning alerts, and the formation of strategies to deal with conflict hotspots, Ambassador Quy said.

However, the Vietnamese diplomat also emphazised the importance of technology transfer and continuous training for peacekeepers, as well as for co-operation forces of the recipient country.

The nation currently has two groups of peacekeepers, including staff officers and soldiers working at level-two field hospitals.

Vietnamese officers and soldiers in both forces are competent when using modern technology, making full use of those that the UN is applying at its missions and field hospitals.

The UN agency specialising in monitoring this field appreciates the capabilities of Vietnamese officers and soldiers to grasp and apply technology efficiently, especially in terms of information analysis and early warning signals, he added.

During its open debate, the UNSC adopted the first presidential statement on the use of technologies which aim to improve the safety of peacekeepers, along with putting forward a resolution that promotes accountability for the killing of, and all acts of violence against, UN peacekeeping personnel.