New york: The United Nations today honoured more than 50,000 peacekeepers worldwide, including over 4,000 Bangladeshis, while paying tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of global peace. Marking the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, observed annually on May 29, the UN recognised the dedication, courage and sacrifice of peacekeepers serving in some of the world’s most volatile conflict zones.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the UN office in Bangladesh highlighted the urgent need for greater investment in peace and stability worldwide, emphasizing the crucial work of peacekeepers. The statement read, “Their work underscores the urgency of investing in peace.”
UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres, in a message marking the day, noted that more than 50,000 UN peacekeepers are currently deployed across the globe to protect civilians and support peace efforts. He acknowledged their role in de-escalating tensions, overseeing aid delivery, supporting elections, and fostering political solutions in dangerous settings.
Guterres paid tribute to peacekeepers past and present, honoring nearly 4,500 peacekeepers who have lost their lives since 1948, including 59 who died last year. He stressed that no one should die serving the cause of peace, calling attacks on peacekeepers grave violations of international humanitarian law and urging member states to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel.
The Secretary-General described peacekeeping as a proven, cost-effective instrument for restoring stability and hope amid rising global tensions, emphasizing the need for sustained political commitment and reliable financial support. This year’s theme, ‘Invest in Peace,’ calls for decisive action to equip peacekeepers with necessary resources.
The UN reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening measures to enhance the safety and operational effectiveness of peacekeepers, who routinely face significant risks in their duties. Guterres stated, “An investment in peacekeeping is an investment in a safer future. Let us always support the people who help make peace possible.”
As part of the observance, Guterres is scheduled to lay a wreath at the Peacekeepers Memorial at UN Headquarters on June 5 in honor of fallen peacekeepers. He will also preside over a ceremony to award the Dag Hammarskj¶ld Medal posthumously to personnel who lost their lives in service. The event will feature the presentation of the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award and the UN Woman Police Officer of the Year Award.
UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix is expected to address a briefing at UN Headquarters on the occasion.