Australia’s Role in Peacekeeping: The Fine Line Between Diplomacy and Risk

eWise Blog

Australia has long been a strong advocate for global peacekeeping efforts, participating in missions across the Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East. The recent proposal for a ‘coalition of the willing’ to send a peacekeeping force to Ukraine, including Australian troops, raises significant questions about our role in international conflicts and the potential risks involved.

Peacekeeping is a noble pursuit, but the Ukraine conflict presents unique challenges. Unlike traditional peacekeeping missions, where forces intervene post-conflict to maintain stability, Ukraine remains an active war zone. Deploying troops into such a volatile situation risks transforming peacekeepers into combatants, especially given Russia’s outright rejection of NATO or European forces on Ukrainian soil. This could lead to Australia being drawn into a broader confrontation, which is not in our national interest.

Australia’s history in peacekeeping, from East Timor to the Solomon Islands, has largely involved stabilising regions with limited military opposition. Ukraine is different. A ceasefire or peace deal must first be established before any meaningful peacekeeping mission can be considered. Without clear conditions and an internationally recognised agreement, such a force risks being a political gesture rather than an effective stabilising force.

Moreover, the success of a peacekeeping force hinges on the backing of major global powers. The absence of a strong US security guarantee raises doubts about the viability of this initiative. If European forces find themselves in direct conflict with Russian troops, does Australia have the capacity and political will to stand firm in such a scenario?

Instead of committing troops, Australia should focus on diplomatic efforts, humanitarian aid, and military support through training and logistics. There are numerous ways we can assist Ukraine without putting Australian lives directly in harm’s way.

While Australia must continue to support global peace and security, we must also ensure that our involvement in Ukraine is measured, strategic, and does not compromise our national interests. Peacekeeping should never become a pathway to war.