Under the command of the UN Security Council, peacekeeping operations are a temporary multinational measure designed to maintain international peace and security. Peacekeepers normally monitor implementation of agreements between hostile parties, observe a situation and report to the secretary-general, provide emergency medical services, assist in the resettlement of refugees, enforce embargoes, monitor elections and supervise troop withdrawals. Their primary purpose, however, is to serve as a buffer force between two or more warring parties. Peacekeeping operations are usually established with the consent of the parties involved, along with essential personnel and financial support from Security Council members. UN forces can also include civilian police monitors, support staff or volunteers to serve in political, humanitarian and administrative capacities.
Peacekeeping requires diplomacy and tact as much as it does combat skills.
Our United Nations troops have been put to the test and have emerged triumphant. In recent years, a significant portion of Jordan's military personnel have participated in UN peacekeeping operations, illustrating the country's global commitment to peace. The previous charts summarize Jordan's recent contributions to UN peacekeeping missions throughout the world. In the course of performing their duties in the UN peacekeeping operations, seven Jordanians have lost their lives and 185 have been injured.