![Peacekeepers abused Liberian women, UN says](https://www.jurist.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/jurist-white-text.png)
[JURIST] UN peacekeepers sexually abused Liberian women, according to an initial UN investigation announced on Friday. An initial investigation into allegations showed that as many as 20 reports of abuse could be substantiated, with the allegations ranging from peacekeepers having paid for sex to sexual abuse of minors in Liberia [JURIST news archive]. A UN official said four nations have contributed troops to the Liberia mission but would not name them. The UN Mission in Liberia [official website] began in 2003 to help implement a ceasefire between the government and rebel forces. The head of the UN mission, Jacques Paul Klein, is expected to step down following the expiration of his contract this spring, with the deputy chief Abou Moussa to take charge in the interim. The abuse reports are the latest in a string of abuse charges surrounding UN peacekeeping missions in Bosnia, East Timor, Cambodia and the Congo. UN peacekeepers accused of abuse are currently discharged to be disciplined by their home country, but many escape ever being punished. AP has more.