So far, the UN has failed to garner commitments by member-states for the
donation of military helicopters. A range of countries, including the
permanent members of the Security Council, had been approached.
"We have received contributions from member states for most of the
military capabilities required for UNAMID," the report said. "However, there
are shortfalls in a number of critical areas, including two medium transport
companies, three medium utility helicopter units, and a light tactical
helicopter unit. To date, no pledges have been received."
On Nov. 12, Ban released a report that warned of a threat to
international peace-keepers in Darfour, known as the African Union-United
Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfour, or UNAMID. The report to the Security
Council cited attacks on African Union bases in September 2007 that resulted
in 10 deaths.
Since then, Darfour rebel groups have sought to agree to a united
leadership. UN-sponsored talks between the government and rebel groups,
meant to take place in Libya, have been postponed until December.
"I am concerned that the security incidents over the past month and the
continuing delays in the deployment of UNAMID could lead to a further
deterioration in the situation on the ground," the report said.
The UN and the African Union plan to organize a 26,000-member
peace-keeping force in Darfour. The force, not yet approved by
the Sudanese regime, was scheduled to assume responsibility for the western
province on Dec. 31. Ban has reported missed deadlines amid security
concerns.
"I call on the [Sudanese] government to agree to the troop composition
of UNAMID," Ban said. "This force composition is predominantly African and
provides for a force that would meet United Nations standards and would be
capable of
deploying in a timely manner."
