Zambia Pushes for Greater Role of Women in UN Peacekeeping

Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to United Nations peacekeeping operations, calling for increased participation of women in policing missions and stronger support for UN Police as a key pillar of global peace and security.

Speaking at the Fifth United Nations Chiefs of Police Summit (UNCOPS 2026) in New York, Deputy Inspector General of Police (Administration) Charity Munganga said Zambia remains committed to advancing a modern and effective United Nations policing framework that promotes peace, security and the rule of law.

Ms Munganga stressed the importance of increasing the number of women serving in peacekeeping missions, particularly in leadership positions, noting that greater gender representation strengthens the effectiveness of UN policing operations.

She said well-trained and properly equipped mixed-gender police units are better placed to maintain public order, protect civilians and respond effectively to high-risk situations in conflict-affected areas.

Ms Munganga also welcomed ongoing efforts to improve financial efficiency under the UN80 initiative, saying savings should be directed towards enhancing training, technology and operational preparedness while safeguarding the core mandate of United Nations peacekeeping operations.

She reaffirmed Zambia's support for the vital role played by United Nations Police in protecting civilians, strengthening the rule of law and helping countries build accountable and professional policing institutions.

The Deputy Inspector General joined ministers, police chiefs and senior representatives from regional and international policing organisations at the two-day summit, where delegates explored ways of strengthening international peace, security and sustainable development through national and United Nations policing.

Discussions also focused on enhancing the capacity and performance of the United Nations Police Division as the organisation's lead body for policing and law enforcement.

The Fifth United Nations Chiefs of Police Summit was held in New York from 7 to 8 July 2026.

The information is contained in a statement issued by First Secretary for Press and Public Relations at Zambia's Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Namatama Njekwa.