Syalu Maharana: A Pioneer of Women in Global Peacekeeping

Syalu Maharana, a CRPF officer, served as Chief Operations Officer for the all-women peacekeeping unit in Liberia amid its recovery from civil war. Her impactful service contributed to restoring stability and respecting women in peacekeeping. Maharana’s journey highlights the role of women in traditionally male-dominated fields and their significant contributions to global peace efforts.

Syalu Maharana, currently 48 years old, originally began her journey as a dedicated officer with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) while balancing motherhood. In 2009, she was chosen for her first overseas deployment to the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), during a time when the nation was recovering from devastating civil wars that resulted in over 250,000 fatalities and widespread displacement.

Embracing challenges, Maharana qualified for this prestigious role due to her decade-long service and demonstrated physical and mental fitness, despite having to leave her three-year-old child behind. Joining the all-women contingent, she took on the significant responsibility of serving as the Chief Operations Officer of the Fully Formed Female Police Unit (FFPU), dedicated to restoring peace in Liberia.

India is recognized for having one of the largest groups of female peacekeepers within the UN. It was pioneering in sending an all-women FFPU to Liberia, consisting of 125 officers who operated in Monrovia to aid the country’s political transition and recovery post-civil war. Under the leadership of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Liberia’s first female president, the unit played an essential role in the stabilization efforts following conflict.

The female peacekeepers provided crucial security and social services, including street patrols and training Liberian police personnel. Maharana underscores the respect earned by the UN peacekeepers among the Liberian populace, highlighting, “The blue helmets of the UN were respected. Liberian people were impressed with the all-women contingent.” Their presence marked a significant milestone in the country’s security landscape.

Following her tenure in Liberia, Maharana continued to break barriers, serving in predominantly male units in Dantewada, Kashmir, and Ahmedabad. She subsequently rose to the rank of Commanding Officer, leading one of the CRPF’s all-women battalions, demonstrating her steadfast commitment to both her country and her role in international peacekeeping.

This article features in Outlook’s March 11, 2025 Women’s Day special issue, titled “Women at Work,” focusing on women’s experiences in traditionally male-dominated roles. Shweta Desai, a senior editor based in Mumbai, reported on these significant contributions.

Syalu Maharana embodies the spirit of resilience and dedication as a Central Reserve Police Force officer who exemplified leadership within international peacekeeping efforts. Her pivotal role in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Liberia not only advanced global peace but also empowered women in armed service, paving the way for future generations. Her journey underscores the vital contributions women can provide in historically male-dominated fields, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.

Original Source: www.outlookindia.com