Question

Directions for Summary: A paragraph is followed by four options which have summarized the passage in their own way. Pick the option that best summarizes 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. 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. 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. Peacekeeping duties would be more effectively performed by local residents given their better understanding, knowledge and rapport with their own communities.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The passage discusses the behavior and impact of foreign peacekeepers in poor countries. These peacekeepers live separated from the local populace, often in more luxurious conditions, which creates a barrier between them and the communities they are supposed to help. Although their isolation might be justified by the challenges of their job, it results in resentment from locals. The passage suggests an alternative approach of bottom-up peacebuilding, where peacekeepers engage directly with local communities to understand their issues and build trust.

Looking at the provided options:

1. The first option describes the current situation but does not address the suggested solution for a closer working relationship with locals.

2. The second option focuses on the resentment due to the peacekeepers' lifestyle but does not highlight the potential benefits of working closely with communities.

3. The third option correctly summarizes the passage, noting that while the aloofness of peacekeepers may be justified, more effective outcomes would be achieved through direct engagement with local communities.

4. The fourth option suggests replacing foreign peacekeepers with local residents, which deviates from the passage's proposal of peacekeepers working closely with locals, not replacing them.

Therefore, the best summary of the passage is the third option: 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.