The United Nations on Thursday honoured the dedication and bravery of its peacekeepers around the world as it marked the 2024 International Day of UN Peacekeepers with events held at its headquarters and field missions.
Observed every May 29, the day recognises the unwavering service of men and women deployed under the UN flag and pays solemn tribute to those who have lost their lives in pursuit of global peace.
Since the first peacekeeping mission was launched in 1948, more than 4,400 peacekeepers have died in the line of duty — including 57 in 2024 alone.
Currently, over 68,000 personnel from civilian, military, and police backgrounds serve across 11 active peacekeeping missions in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, along with roles at the UN Headquarters in New York.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, in a commemorative message, underscored the growing complexity of peacekeeping efforts in today’s world, citing global polarisation, terrorism, cross-border crime, and the rise of misinformation as significant challenges.
“In a world facing increasing divisions and transnational threats, the need for peacekeeping is greater than ever,” Guterres said.
“But to succeed, our peacekeepers must be adequately equipped. This is a shared responsibility between the United Nations and its member states.”
A wreath-laying ceremony was held at the UN Headquarters in New York, where peacekeepers and dignitaries gathered to honour fallen colleagues. The ceremony also featured the posthumous presentation of the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal to 58 peacekeepers who lost their lives — including one who died in 1973.
The event also highlighted outstanding contributions from female personnel. Squadron Leader Sharon Mwinsote Syme of Ghana was awarded the 2024 UN Military Gender Advocate Award, while Chief Superintendent Zainab Mbalu Gbla of Sierra Leone received the Woman Police Officer of the Year honour for advancing gender equality in peacekeeping missions.
In the field, peacekeepers shared their experiences. Spanish Lieutenant Colonel Agustín García, deployed in the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), described his mission as deeply meaningful due to its close connection with local communities.
Despite ongoing tensions in the region, UNIFIL continues to support the Lebanese Armed Forces, provide humanitarian assistance, and aid reconstruction efforts.
UN Peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix acknowledged the harsh conditions and complex political environments where many missions operate — including those in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Golan Heights. Yet, he affirmed that peacekeepers continue to play a critical role in preventing conflict, maintaining ceasefires, and protecting civilians.
Lacroix also reflected on the recent UN Peacekeeping Ministerial summit in Berlin, which saw over 130 delegations pledge enhanced support for peacekeeping, including training, resources, and new technologies.
“This strong backing confirms that peacekeeping remains a vital international partnership,” he said.
The day closed on a reflective note, celebrating the courage and commitment of peacekeepers while calling for continued global support to enable them to meet the demands of an ever-changing world.