President Bill Clinton's administration says the new post of deputy undersecretary would enhance the effectiveness of peacekeeping, and that it should be filled by a respected American who can improve the organization's relations with Congress and the Pentagon. The United States advocates beefing up the Department of Peacekeeping Operations in New York, which employs 410 people, about half as many as in the world body's Department of Public Information. But France, which controls the top peacekeeping post, viewed the initiative as a challenge to its influence, according to diplomats. The French delegate, Jean-David Levitte, has complained that Washington already exerts excessive authority in the world body. Mr. Levitte pointedly said at a news conference earlier this month that the European Union's 15 members together paid more than the United States does toward United Nations expenses.
French officials deny that they single-handedly blocked the U.S. proposal to create the post.
French officials deny that they single-handedly blocked Mrs. Albright's proposal to create a No. 2 post in the peacekeeping department, according to diplomats familiar with the dispute. If you appreciate the information we provide, please support our work. Make a donation or become a member of Global Policy Forum.