In 2002, the UN General Assembly established an International Day of Peacekeepers by adopting Resolution 57/129, to be observed every May 29th. The purpose of this day is to:
- to honor the memory of the UN peacekeepers who lost their lives in the service of peace
- to pay tribute to all those men and women who have served and continue to serve in UN peacekeeping operations for their professionalism, dedication, and courage.
Thus, every year since its inception, on May 29, UN offices, Member States, and non-governmental organizations organize events to mark International Peacekeepers Day.
Since the establishment of the first peacekeeping mission in 1948 until April 2018, 3,500 military personnel, police officers, and civilians have lost their lives in the service of peace.
Originally it was limited to monitoring the respect of ceasefires, peacekeeping has evolved over time and now includes the protection of civilians, the disarmament of former combatants, the defense of human rights, the promotion of the state of law, the support for free and fair elections, the fight against landmines, etc. The Blue Helmets also work to ensure that women participate in peace processes, political life, and governance services. All of these efforts are fundamental investments in building lasting peace.
Former Blue Helmets, children to pass on the memory, and members of civil society are invited to attend this day.
Memories of International Peacekeepers Day 2014:
For more information, click on the following link to our press kit:
Press kit: International Day of UN Peacekeepers