Who Are Military Observers

United  Nations Military Observers – Unarmed Experts 

For over 50 years, the United Nations Military Observers (UNMOs) have been a cornerstone in facilitating the peaceful settlement of disputes within and between countries. Representing the entire international community, UNMO teams have successfully observed, monitored and assisted in implementing agreements all around the world. Relying heavily upon their keen military skills, UNMOs must rapidly adjust to the unique tasks of their mission areas.

In most cases, UNMOs are deployed as individuals on small teams, normally without benefit of the usual military logistic and operational backup systems characteristic of a unit deployment. United Nations Military Observers are military officers assigned to serve with the United Nations on a loan basis by Governments of Member States at the request of the Secretary-General to the United Nations. While in the mission area, UNMOs are under operational control of the Chief Military Observer (CMO) and are answerable to him for their conduct and performance as related to the duties performed as a military observer.

UNMOs remain under the command of their home country for legal jurisdiction, promotion, and base pay and allowances (Except the United Nations Mission Subsistence Allowance). UNMOs are considered as “Experts on Missions for the United Nations” as it is defined under Article VI of the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations; this is an important aspect that lends credibility and legitimacy to their functions when they are deployed on mission.

UNMOs are not permitted to carry weapons. Military Observers find themselves in the role of operational “pathfinders”, who observe, report, negotiate, and investigate occurrences as members of a multinational team. Through this unique composition, they symbolize the international authority of the United Nations.

Photo: Finnish Defence Forces.

Text Source: “Selection Standards and Training Guidelines for United Nations Military Observers”. United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations.