The Intelligence Gathering Activity in Peace Support Operations
Abstract
The United Nations and the international community refuse to admit that the intelligence gathering is necessary for any UN mission. Lebanon 1983 and Rwanda 1994 showed how political decisions have hampered or ignored the value of intelligence assessments with disastrous consequences. The UN primary objection to the use of intelligence in PSOs refers to the necessity of impartiality for any military unit wearing the blue patch of the UN. However, the ethical aspect of intelligence balances its classical military offensiveness, leaving this element free from partiality. In fact, intelligence provides the best way to understand the mission assigned and to protect peacekeepers and population from the threats of the theater. In a PSO environment, intelligence may provide opportunities the reason for de-escalation, acting in advance for the success of the mission and to better protect the population. Therefore, one aspect remains of great importance: the human factor. That is why "HUMINT gathered from interacting with the complete range of local human sources, provides critical information from which a complete intelligence picture can be developed."
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA604349
Entities
People
- Luca Lanubile
Organizations
- Marine Corps University