“United Nations intervention was a complete failure.” Discuss with reference to two of the following: Congo, Mozambique, Somalia, Rwanda.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that United Nations intervention was a complete failure, with reference to two of the four countries specified. Candidates may offer equal coverage of either of the two the countries selected, or they may prioritize their discussion of either. However, both will be a feature of the response. Candidates may argue that UN intervention in Somalia foundered when its operations were disrupted by militia activity. An American attempt to capture Mohamed Aidid failed and the UN withdrew shortly afterwards. Candidates may argue that UN intervention in Rwanda also failed. The UN Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR) mandate was insufficiently robust and it was powerless to prevent the genocide that engulfed the country. On the other hand, the UN Operation in the Congo (ONUC) was able to partially fulfil its mission by restoring stability and preventing the secession of the Katanga region. Moreover, the UN Observer Mission in Mozambique (UNOMOZ) was successful in monitoring and verifying the ceasefire that ended that country’s civil war. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.