RESDAL joins regional forum on UN peace operations as Uruguay assumes RELACOPAZ chair

RESDAL took part in the Third Latin American and Caribbean Ministerial Conference on UN Peacekeeping, held on October 8–9 in Asunción, Paraguay. 

The meeting marked the end of Paraguay’s term as Pro Tempore Chair of the Latin American and Caribbean Network for Cooperation on Peacekeeping Operations (RELACOPAZ) and the beginning of Uruguay’s leadership, reaffirming the country’s commitment to regional cooperation and multilateral engagement in peace and security. 

Chaired by Paraguay’s Minister of National Defense, Óscar González, the conference—held under the theme “Strengthening Peace”—brought together government delegations from across the region, senior UN officials, international organizations, and security and defense experts. 

Among the UN representatives were Miroslav Jenča, Assistant Secretary-General, who attended in person, and Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, who participated virtually. 

The event also featured contributions from institutions such as the Dallaire Institute, the Inter-American Defense College, and the Elsie Initiative—led by Global Affairs Canada—alongside the Latin American Security and Defense Network (RESDAL). 

Representing RESDAL, Marcela Donadio delivered a presentation on women’s inclusion in peace operations, highlighting both achievements and remaining challenges in creating truly inclusive environments. 

Over two days, discussions addressed key issues for the future of peace and security in the region, including: 

●     The future of UN peacekeeping. 

●     The protection of vulnerable populations. 

●     The role of women and youth in building peace. 

●     Mechanisms for international cooperation. 

Delegates also examined the current situations in Colombia and Haiti, concluding with bilateral and multilateral dialogue sessions among participating countries.