Addis Ababa, May 14, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to international peace and security by pledging enhanced support for United Nations peacekeeping operations during the 2025 UN Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting held in Berlin.
The Ethiopian delegation, led by Minister of Defense Aisha Mohammed, participated in the high-level meeting which concluded on May 14.
In her address, the Minister underscored Ethiopia’s historic and ongoing leadership in peacekeeping efforts under the UN banner, noting the country’s distinguished legacy as one of the top troop-contributing nations.
“Ethiopia remains steadfast in its commitment to multilateralism and global peace,” Minister Aisha emphasized. “We are prepared to expand our contributions both in scale and in quality to ensure the success of UN peace operations.”
In line with this commitment, Ethiopia pledged to provide a utility helicopter unit, a Formed Police Unit, and a police guard unit—adding critical uniformed capabilities to the UN’s operational strength.
According to her, these new contributions are intended to support more effective and responsive peacekeeping missions in fragile settings.
Minister of Defense highlighted that Ethiopia’s new pledges align with broader UN goals, especially in addressing operational shortfalls in mobility, policing, and rapid deployment, her adviser Ms. Simegn Gizaw told Fana Media Corporation.
Minister Aisha also acknowledged the persistent challenges facing peacekeeping operations, including declining financial support, insufficient troop contributions, and gaps in mission integrity and quality.
She urged all Member States to collectively address these issues to ensure peacekeepers are properly supported and equipped to carry out their mandates.
Furthermore, she praised the professionalism, discipline, and dedication of Ethiopian peacekeepers, noting their strong rapport with local communities in mission areas. “Our troops are not only guardians of peace but also ambassadors of Ethiopia’s values,” she stated.
The Berlin ministerial saw pledges from 74 Member States, with 53 countries offering new uniformed capabilities—totaling 88 military and police units.
Several countries also committed to advancing specialized training in key areas such as civilian protection, gender inclusion, and prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse.
Other pledges included technological upgrades, enhanced data-driven approaches, and initiatives supporting the Women, Peace and Security agendas.