Civil war in Sierra Leone (West Africa) and the role of international community and India in peace building

The decade long civil war in Sierra Leone since 1991 has destroyed the whole nation and the lives of lakhs of people. Other several lakhs of people had to leave the country and become refugees. It is an example how a peaceful ordered country can plunge in to war and ruin itself. Even cannibalism and sexual atrocities were used as weapons in war. Some outside actors also played heinous role in this war. The international community led by the United Nations responded immediately to stop the war and save the lives of millions of people. In the UN peacekeeping operation India was the largest contributor of force with nearly ¼ peacekeeping soldiers from its military and air force. The efforts of international community led by the UN, are on to rebuild this country and India is extending all possible help and cooperation.