UNMOP was established in February 1996 to take over from the United Nations Confidence Restoration Operation (UNCRO) the task of monitoring the demilitarization of the Prevlaka peninsula, a strategic area disputed by Croatia and the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Following the successful completion of its mandate, the Mission was terminated on 15 December 2002.

"Throughout a turbulent decade in the Balkans, UNMOP contributed to insulating Prevlaka from the surrounding conflicts and tensions and ensured that hostilities nearby did not create instability on the peninsula. It demonstrated that even a small United Nations presence, properly conceived and executed, can make a difference." UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan
(S/2002/1341)