Peacemaking in a shifting world order: A macro-level analysis of UN mediation in Syria

Abstract Failures to bring internationalised civil wars, such as in Syria, Libya, or Yemen, a negotiated agreement have led questioning of the UN's role peacemaking. The literature explains mediation outcomes by examining micro-level aspects pertaining either process conflict context. While both are important, they influenced macro-level dynamics related world politics that received less attention. Yet, an awareness structural context which takes place is particularly relevant times tectonic shifts politics, current change order from unipolarity multipolarity. This article fills this gap exploring mechanisms through macro- and factors interact mediation, illustrated case UN Syria. thereby makes two contributions. First, it provides analysis link between complementing explanations with perspective. Second, allows for better understanding Overall, contributes reflections on how can keep its relevance peacemaking shifting order.