Peacekeepers
CAT 2021 Slot 1 · VARC · Easy · Verbal Ability
The passage given below is followed by four alternate summaries. Choose the option that best captures the essence of the passage.
Foreign peacekeepers often exist in a bubble in the poor countries in which they are deployed; they live in posh compounds, drive fancy vehicles, and distance themselves from locals. This may be partially justified as they are outsiders, living in constant fear, performing a job that is emotionally draining. But they are often despised by the locals, and many would like them to leave. A better solution would be bottom-up peacebuilding, which would involve their spending more time working with communities, understanding their grievances and earning their trust, rather than only meeting government officials.
- A.
The environment in poor countries has tended to make foreign peacekeeping forces live in enclaves, but it is time to change this scenario.
- B.
Peacekeeping duties would be more effectively performed by local residents given their better understanding, knowledge and rapport with their own communities.
- C.
Peacekeeping forces in foreign countries have tended to be aloof for valid reasons but would be more effective if they worked more closely with local communities.
- D.
Extravagant lifestyles and an aloof attitude among the foreigners working as peacekeepers in poor countries have justifiably make them the target of local anger.
C
Explanation
The passage states that peacekeepers remain isolated for understandable reasons (fear, emotional drain), but peacebuilding would be better achieved if they engaged directly with local communities. Option C captures both the cause of their aloofness and the suggested bottom-up solution.
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