International Day of UN Peacekeepers
Since 1948 more than one million women and men have worn the blue helmet to safeguard communities in some of the most dangerous situations around the world. Peacekeeping remains one of the main tools for the United Nations to protect civilian populations, help prevent new conflicts, reduce violence, and strengthen security on the ground.
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in an increasingly complex operating environment for peacekeeping troops. Yet they continue to support governments and local communities in 13 active peacekeeping operations around the world.
Twenty years since the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. We also recognize the invaluable contribution of women in peacekeeping. More women in peacekeeping reflects the populations we serve; building trust with communities.
Today, we also pay tribute to those who have perished while serving under the blue flag. They have made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of the people we serve, and humanity is indebted to them.
On this International Day of UN Peacekeepers, I thank all Troop and Police Contributing Countries for their commitment to multilateralism and the values of justice, international peace and security.
Most importantly, I commend all Peacekeepers for upholding the primary mandate of the United Nations,
“…to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war.”
Thank you.
