The UN and Regional Organizations

Abstract

NATO actions in Kosovo and Serbia in 1999 underpinned important developments in the post-cold war European security environment: international action based on human security is increasingly legitimate, and multilateral organization is more and more necessary for the maintenance of peace and security. However, NATO’s actions also raised serious questions about these very truths, which have outlived the bombing and highlighted the uncertain and ambiguous roles of the UN and regional organizations in maintaining peace. This chapter focuses on the changing role of regional organizations in assuring peace and security. In what was designed as a hierarchical relationship, regional organizations have become increasingly visible partners with the United Nations in many areas of conflict management. In Europe, Central America, Africa and Asia, regional organizations are making crucial contributions to the resolution of local and regional tensions.