United Nations Peacekeeping helps countries torn by conflict create conditions for lasting peace. Today's multidimensional peacekeeping operations are called upon not only to maintain peace and security, but also to facilitate the political process, protect civilians, assist in the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of former combatants; support the organization of elections, protect and promote human rights and assist in restoring the rule of law.

The Department of Peace Operations (DPO) is dedicated to assisting the Member States and the Secretary-General in their efforts to maintain international peace and security. DPO provides political and executive direction to UN peacekeeping operations around the world and maintains contact with the Security Council, troop and financial contributors, and parties to the conflict in the implementation of Security Council mandates.

Special political missions are UN civilian missions supporting conflict prevention, mediation, peacemaking and peacebuilding around the world. Established through a range of mandates, special political missions help advance political dialogue and reconciliation, facilitate credible electoral processes, monitor human rights, strengthen rule-of-law institutions, and coordinate international assistance in fragile or transitional contexts.

The Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) leads United Nations efforts to prevent and resolve conflict and build lasting peace. DPPA leads United Nations efforts to advance peace initiatives, provides mediation support, strengthens political transition and peacebuilding processes, and supports Member States in electoral assistance.