UN Pays Tribute to Peacekeepers' Service and Sacrifice

A UN Military Observer in South Sudan supports communities through awareness. Photo: UN News

The United Nations is honouring the dedication and sacrifice of its peacekeepers with a series of commemorative events on Thursday, marking the International Day of UN Peacekeepers.

Established in 1948, UN peacekeeping has grown into a global force for stability. Today, over 68,000 civilian, military, and police personnel serve in 11 missions across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

The Day serves as a tribute to their unwavering commitment and honours the more than 4,400 peacekeepers—known as "blue helmets"—who have lost their lives in the line of duty over the past 77 years, including 57 so far in 2024.

This year’s theme, "Fit for the Future: Building Better Peace," highlights the evolving nature of peacekeeping. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasised that peacekeepers are navigating increasingly complex environments amid global turbulence.

He pointed to growing polarisation, the spread of misinformation, the persistent threat of terrorism, and cross-border challenges such as climate change and transnational crime—all of which make peacekeeping more difficult and dangerous.

“Now more than ever, the world needs the United Nations – and the United Nations needs peacekeeping that is fully equipped for today’s realities and tomorrow’s challenges,” the Secretary-General said.

He stressed the critical need for adequate resources and support: “It is essential that peacekeepers have what they need to do their jobs. This is a shared responsibility of the United Nations and its Member States.”

Commemorations at UN Headquarters in New York include a wreath-laying ceremony and the presentation of awards to two exceptional women peacekeepers for their contributions to advancing gender equality in the field.