Berhanemeskel Nega: Lessons Learned from the UN-AU Hybrid Peacekeeping Mission in Darfur (UNAMID)

In this episode of Lawyering Peace, Berhanemeskel Nega, a seasoned diplomat with over 35 years of experience in multilateral diplomacy, mediation, and peacekeeping, takes us inside the challenges and lessons learned from the UN-AU hybrid peacekeeping mission in Darfur (UNAMID), where he served as Director of Political Affairs and Head of Office in Darfur from 2014 to 2020.

Drawing on his leadership roles in multiple UN missions, including as acting head of the UN integrated peacebuilding operation in Sierra Leone, Nega reflects on the complex political, humanitarian, and security context of Darfur during UNAMID’s tenure (2007–2020). He discusses navigating a resistant Sudanese government under Omar al-Bashir, the challenges of implementing the UN’s mandate, and the vital role peacekeepers play in protecting civilians in the world’s most volatile regions.

Nega critiques structural inefficiencies within the United Nations and highlights the inadequate legal protections for peacekeepers under international law, which left those charged with safeguarding civilians vulnerable to becoming targets themselves. Through his deep knowledge of peacekeeping in Darfur and Sierra Leone, Nega emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict, rather than relying on superficial peace efforts, and examines the evolving role of the international community in building sustainable peace.