Honoring the Sacrifice of UN Peacekeepers on International Day

The United Nations commemorates the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, honoring nearly 4,500 individuals who have lost their lives in service. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres highlights the vital role of peacekeepers in conflict resolution and humanitarian efforts. Awards were presented to outstanding peacekeepers, including the Dag Hammarskjold Medal and the Captain Mbaye Diagne Medal for Exceptional Courage. With over 51,000 personnel currently deployed in peacekeeping missions, the UN continues to recognize the sacrifices made by these brave individuals. This annual observance, established in 2003, serves as a reminder of their commitment to global peace and security.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2026, 12:19 IST

Commemorating UN Peacekeepers

Photo: IANS

United Nations, June 6: The United Nations has honored the memory of nearly 4,500 peacekeepers who have tragically lost their lives while serving over the last 78 years, coinciding with the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, which is celebrated every year on May 29.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres remarked during the ceremonies, where he presented the Dag Hammarskjold Medal, the Captain Mbaye Diagne Medal for Exceptional Courage, and the awards for UN Woman Police Officer of the Year and UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year. He laid a wreath at the Peacekeepers Memorial located on the North Lawn of the UN headquarters in New York on Friday (local time), stating, "The UN Blue Helmet symbolizes hope for communities during their most challenging times."

Highlighting the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping as a response to global conflicts, Guterres noted that peacekeepers are actively involved in reducing violence, facilitating political resolutions, supporting electoral processes, providing humanitarian aid, and clearing landmines, among other critical tasks.

He expressed admiration for their courage, saying, "They operate under extreme peril, demonstrating bravery and initiative that truly inspires. We extend our deepest respect for their service and sacrifice."

During the event, the Dag Hammarskjold Medal was awarded to 68 peacekeepers from 33 different countries, including 59 who lost their lives last year. Guterres emphasized, "These individuals exemplify the best of humanity, willing to risk everything to ensure the safety of others."

Two peacekeepers were recognized for their exceptional bravery with the Captain Mbaye Diagne Medal for Exceptional Courage: the late Sergii Prykhodko from Ukraine and Matias Reyes from Uruguay.

Additionally, Abhilasha Barak from India, who is part of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon, was honored as the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year, while Stephanie Königs from Germany, who served in the UN Mission in South Sudan, received the UN Woman Police Officer of the Year award.

Currently, the United Nations reports that over 51,000 personnel, including civilians, military, and police, are engaged in 11 peacekeeping missions worldwide. Since the inception of UN peacekeeping operations 78 years ago, more than 2 million peacekeepers have participated in 71 missions across four continents.

The UN General Assembly established May 29 as the International Day of UN Peacekeepers through a resolution adopted in 2003.