The Relationship between rio s and the UN in Matters of Peace and Security: It’s Complicated

Abstract

Employing the example of ecowas’ reaction to the military coup in Niger, this article offers a fresh appraisal of the relationship between rio s and the UN within the universal collective security system which is – once again – largely paralysed by geopolitics. Departing from an analysis of the channels available to rio s to engage with the UN in a rapidly unfolding regional crisis, this paper argues that the UN primarily perceives rio s as mediators and peace facilitators. This is driven by rio s’ often advantageous position due to their knowledge of local dynamics and their particularly strong interest in securing peace in their own neighbourhoods. However, UN-rio cooperation in peacekeeping is not without tension and rio s’ use of military force without the targeted State’s consent or sc authorisation is seemingly at odds with the UN Charter. However, the unsc’s ambiguous practice regarding Chapter-viii authorisations may allow future developments involving rio s without opening the door to their full autonomy.