Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) was established in 2011 to protect civilians, support humanitarian aid delivery, monitor human rights, and help implement peace agreements essential to the country’s stability. The mission includes personnel from over 70 countries.
Inspector Stephanie Königs of Germany, recognized as Woman Police Officer of the Year, reflected on her peacekeeping experience after serving a year and a half with UNMISS. She shared that her motivation to become a police officer grew from a desire to help people, inspired by her parents, who were also police officers. Her focus has been on making a tangible difference through everyday interactions during patrols.
Königs emphasized that the impact of peacekeeping is often found in small, unseen engagements. She shared examples of young women who were initially hesitant to communicate with peacekeepers but gradually opened up, expressing appreciation for the officers’ efforts. According to her, patience, listening, and genuine interest in local stories are key to building the trust necessary for effective peacekeeping.
Königs also highlighted how working with colleagues from diverse backgrounds inspired her and revealed commonalities despite cultural differences. She stressed the importance of increasing the number of women in peacekeeping missions to further strengthen these efforts.