UN salutes 1 million women and men peacekeepers

World: Secretary-General of the United Nations – António Guterres honoured and commended the 1 million women and men who served as UN peacekeepers since 1948. The statement comes on May 29, 2022, which is observed as “UN Peacekeeping Day” worldwide, to salute and serve valiantly in UN operations to keep the peace.

He stated, “I salute their dedication in helping societies turn away from conflict, towards a more peaceful and prosperous future for all. We are forever in their debt”.

Meanwhile, the United Nations, marking the day, asserted, “Despite grave personal risks, the men & women Serving For Peace with UN Peacekeeping are helping to create a more peaceful & prosperous world. On Sunday’s International Day of UN Peacekeepers, & every day, we thank them for their service”.

Chief of Operations and Resource Management of MINUSCA stated that the United Nations Volunteers in peacekeeping missions are highly skilled, highly motivated & have extensive relevant experience. UNV has been a vital resource for United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic since its inception.

The United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution 57/129 on December 11, 2002, to mark the day.

May 29 also marks the anniversary of the establishment of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization – (UNTSO) in 1948 to monitor the ceasefire after the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, which was the first-ever UN peacekeeping mission.

On the other hand, the UN Institute for Disarmament Research asserted, “Women are essential to UN Peace Operations. This International Day on UN Peacekeeping, learn more about the women who are challenging gender stereotypes and making the field of weapons and ammunition management more inclusive”.

On the day, many countries honour their peacekeepers, marking their sacrifice and dedication to making the world a better place to live. Meanwhile, the UN also arranges – festivals, discussion forums, and memorials in cooperation with local and national groups.