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In the existing literature on the successes and failures of peacekeeping operations, there is a diverse range of conceptual definitions of what a successful operation actually entails. The use of particular definitions in scholarly literature can shape and influence the formulationand execution of future policies and mandates, advocating for different strategies inresponding to conflict and violence. This thesis argues for the importance of explicitly addressing these diverse definitions to gain a greater understanding of how success is studied in peace missions and how the interpretation of outcomes can vary depending on the success definition. Therefore, the thesis aims to systematically evaluate and compare diverse definitions of success in peacekeeping operations by applying them to the case of UNAMID,the UN/AU Hybrid Peace Operation in Darfur. These definitions include i) success measured by the absence of warfare, ii) an assessment of the mission’s accomplishments in fulfilling mandates, and iii) an examination of the establishment of structures for long-lasting peace.

The thesis identifies various interpretations of the success outcome of UNAMID, underscoring the complexity in defining success and studying peace missions. One challengelies in defining benchmarks that can be employed to establish success and systematically compare missions. The thesis highlights the need for a more holistic framework that better captures the nuances in conflicts and peace missions, incorporating all aspects of success, including missions’ impact, outcomes, and processes.