Abstract
This qualitative study took place with members of the Ecuadorian army. The purpose was to discover the leadership experiences the soldiers encountered while deployed to a United Nations Peackeeping Mission. The theoretical framework for the study was threefold. Hofstede’s Dimensions of Culture theory was utilized to uncover the dynamics of working on a peacekeeping mission where, on average, there are officers serving from 23 countries. Situational Leadership theory is commonly used in military contexts, including peacekeeping. Complexity Leadership theory recognizes the fact that missions are often chaotic, ambiguous, unpredictable, complex environments with inter-actor agencies. Twelve interviews were conducted with officers from seven different missions. Interviews were recorded, digitally transcribed by artificial intelligence, and then analyzed with qualitative data analysis software. The data received was organized into four main themes: 1) Upholding standards of training, 2) Multiple, diverse command and control practices, 3) A mission is a cultural exchange, and 4) Journey from conflict to peace. This paper covers the third theme on cultural practices and leadership. Officers related their experiences working with personnel from multiple countries and in an unfamiliar culture, often under hostile conditions. The role of UN peacekeepers has shifted from militaries in the global north to those in the global south. This demografic has rarely been heard from and this study gives voice to the personnel currently working in this sector. The results of the study have implications for organizational leadership and the findings inform those who work to support the officers, their families, and their militaries.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Peacekeeping, United Nations, Complex International Contexts, Cultural Leadership, Global South
