Dhaka: Bangladesh will join the global observance of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers tomorrow, marking the occasion with due respect and a series of special events. The day, established by the UN General Assembly in 2002, pays tribute to the men and women who serve in peacekeeping missions and honors those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of peace.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, this year’s theme is “The Future of Peacekeeping.” The day will begin with a peacekeepers’ run/rally-2025, with Home Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury attending as the chief guest. In addition, a reception for injured peacekeepers and a special presentation on UN peacekeeping operations will take place at the China-Friendship Conference Centre, with Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed expected to be the chief guest.
A press release by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) highlights that special journals and supplements will be published in national dailies, and talk shows will be aired on Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar, emphasizing the day’s significance. Documentaries on Bangladesh’s peacekeeping activities will also be broadcast on local television channels.
The reception will see attendance from advisory council members, ambassadors, high commissioners, the UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, military and police chiefs, and other senior officials. According to UN information, Bangladesh is the third-largest contributor of military and police personnel to UN Peacekeeping, with over 5,600 personnel deployed in several conflict zones, including 447 women.
In a message, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres highlighted the complex challenges facing peacekeepers today, emphasizing the need for well-equipped peacekeeping missions. “Today, we honor their service,” he said, calling for action beyond remembrance to support peacekeepers’ sacrifices.
Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, reiterated the need for action, stating that peacekeepers’ sacrifices call for more than remembrance. The United Nations Truce Supervision Organization, established in 1948, marked the beginning of peacekeeping efforts, which have since seen more than two million peacekeepers serve in 71 operations worldwide.
Currently, 68,000 women and men serve as military, police, and civilian personnel in 11 conflict zones across the globe, with 190 countries contributing uniformed personnel to these efforts.