The indicator “Peacekeeping Forces” refers to specialised military and civilian contingents deployed by international organisations, primarily the United Nations (UN), to conflict or post-conflict regions with the objective of maintaining and building lasting peace. These forces are distinct from conventional military units in that they are governed by principles of impartiality, the consent of the host nation or parties involved, and the limited use of force, typically restricted to self-defence or the protection of civilians and the mission mandate. Peacekeeping operations act as neutral intermediaries and are often deployed to help enforce peace agreements, monitor ceasefires, protect vulnerable populations, and support humanitarian efforts and political stabilisation.

The use of peacekeeping forces plays a critical role in international conflict resolution and post-conflict recovery. These missions provide a stabilising presence in volatile environments, reducing the likelihood of renewed violence. Policymakers and international bodies use this indicator to assess global peacebuilding efforts, measure international cooperation in conflict zones, and evaluate a country’s contribution to global peacekeeping operations. Researchers use it to study the effectiveness of conflict intervention strategies, while humanitarian agencies rely on peacekeepers to provide secure conditions for aid distribution. Overall, the presence and performance of peacekeeping forces serve as a vital metric for understanding the international community’s commitment to maintaining global peace and security.