This article discusses reported misconduct
by UN Peacekeepers and whether the sexual
crimes they commit should and can be
prosecuted by the International Criminal
Court (ICC). The author emphasizes that
the socio-economic post-conflict position
of women makes them vulnerable to sexual
exploitation and other gender-based
crimes. Rather than protecting civilians,
in some cases UN peacekeepers offer women
goods, money, or services in exchange for
sexual favors. The author argues that
first responsibility falls on states to
prosecute these crimes. However, the ICC