Emran Emon

Armed conflict can never bring lasting benefits; peace is always achieved by avoiding warfare. In response to global conflicts and the need for sustained peace, the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission was established in 1948. Since 2003, every year on May 29, the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers is observed worldwide, commemorating the selfless service and supreme sacrifices of peacekeepers from various countries. This year’s theme, for the day is “The Future of Peacekeeping,” reflecting the evolving nature of peace operations in a complex and rapidly changing world. 

This day was officially designated in line with UN General Assembly Resolution 57/129, adopted on December 11, 2002, following a joint proposal by the Ukrainian peacekeeping agency and the government of Ukraine. The date marks the founding of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), established during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war to monitor ceasefires, making May 29 historically significant.

It’s worth noting that UNTSO was the first UN peacekeeping mission. As such, 2025 marks the 77th anniversary of UN peacekeeping forces. On this day, the UN honors the dedication, professionalism, and ultimate sacrifices of all peacekeepers, both men and women, involved in peace operations across the world. Since 2009, the UN has placed special emphasis on the contribution of women in peacekeeping missions, aiming to reduce gender disparity and promote inclusivity. One of the most symbolic events of the day is the conferral of the “Dag Hammarskjöld Medal” at the UN Headquarters in New York.

Bangladesh has a proud and distinguished record in UN peacekeeping missions. The journey began in 1988 with the deployment of just 15 military observers to the UN Iran-Iraq Military Observer Group (UNIIMOG). Since then, Bangladesh has maintained an impressive trajectory. Throughout the early 1990s, Bangladeshi peacekeepers earned acclaim for their exemplary service in high-conflict zones such as Rwanda, Somalia, and Bosnia. That a developing country like Bangladesh could outperform or match military forces from Belgium in Rwanda, the United States in Somalia, and France in Bosnia astonished many within the UN and among the participating countries.

During the 1994 Rwandan genocide, a Bangladeshi brigade was deployed under the UN mandate. As over 600,000 people perished in a 100-day civil war, most European and African battalions, including Belgian units, withdrew. However, Bangladeshi troops stood firm, significantly reducing the death toll by their brave and strategic presence. Eventually, the UN mandated their withdrawal as well. Their unwavering courage left an indelible impression on international observers.

Similarly, in Somalia, American forces insisted that Bangladeshi troops remain alongside them until the last American soldier exited the mission area. The Somalian people developed deep respect and affection for Bangladeshi peacekeepers, who became symbols of reliability and trust. Time and again, their professionalism, discipline, and humane conduct have earned the admiration of UN officials and local communities alike.

Bangladeshi peacekeepers are now seen as indispensable assets to mission commanders, especially those from Europe and North America. In 1995, when French battalions were withdrawn from Bosnia, Bangladeshi troops filled the gap. Competing alongside contingents from 34 other countries, they proved their mettle. While Dutch and Ukrainian forces failed to prevent massacres in Srebrenica and Zepa, Bangladeshi soldiers, equipped with lighter weaponry but steely determination, managed to protect the city of Bihac, saving countless lives.

As the UN peacekeeping forces celebrate 77 years of operations (1948–2025), Bangladesh celebrates 37 years (1988–2025) of active participation. From the outset, Bangladeshi peacekeepers have earned global admiration for their dedication, efficiency, and courage. In April 2018, marking 30 years of Bangladesh’s participation, UN Secretary-General António Guterres remarked, “The role of Bangladeshi troops in protecting human rights and establishing sustainable peace in volatile regions has deeply impressed me. The female police contingent from Bangladesh is actively promoting social cohesion. Whenever I visit a peacekeeping mission, I cite Bangladeshi peacekeepers as role models.”

Indeed, Bangladesh is a proud partner in the UN peacekeeping mission. In its 54 years of independence, one of the country’s most significant achievements is maintaining its status as a top troop-contributing country. International media have often described Bangladeshi peacekeepers as the “backbone” of UN peacekeeping efforts. From Haiti to East Timor, Lebanon to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bangladeshi peacekeepers have won hearts and built trust among war-torn populations. In places where the name “Bangladesh” was once unknown, it now evokes deep affection and respect. The red and green flag is cherished as a symbol of peace and humanity.

Participation in peacekeeping missions has also helped raise global awareness of Bangladesh and the Bengali language. By rising above divisions of race, religion, political ideology, and ethnicity, Bangladeshi peacekeepers have devoted themselves to serving humanity. Their professionalism, neutrality, integrity, and empathy have made them shining examples in every mission. According to the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations, Bangladesh has consistently ranked among the top three troop-contributing nations since August 2020, out of over 120 participating countries.

To date, six Bangladeshi officers have served as Force Commanders and seven as Deputy Force Commanders in various missions, reflecting the country’s growing leadership. Over the past three decades, Bangladeshi peacekeepers have participated in 63 UN peacekeeping missions across 43 countries, greatly enhancing the country’s global image. These missions also significantly benefit the national economy, currently contributing over BDT 20 billion in remittance income.

Tragically,  since joining UN peacekeeping missions, 168 Bangladeshi peacekeepers have laid down their lives in the line of duty across 63 UN missions in 43 countries. This includes 131 army personnel, 4 from the navy, 9 from the air force, and 24 from the police. An additional 252 have been injured. Currently, 5,677 Bangladeshi peacekeepers are deployed in 10 out of 11 active missions, and the number continues to grow. Bangladesh Navy and Air Force joined the missions in 1993, and the police since 1989. Over 21,453 police personnel, including 1,925 women, have served in various missions. At present, 364 police officers—including 120 women—are deployed in six countries, with 24 having made the ultimate sacrifice in missions.

So far, nearly 3,000 Bangladeshi women have successfully completed peacekeeping duties in conflict zones. The participation of Bangladeshi women is steadily increasing, with 270 currently serving. These include 51 female army officers and 67 other ranks, 6 navy officers, and 11 air force officers. Notably, Bangladesh was the first Muslim-majority country to deploy an all-female police unit to a UN peacekeeping mission, in 2010.

For 37 years, Bangladesh’s peacekeepers have carried the banner of peace amid adversity, danger, and uncertainty—contributing unceasingly to global harmony at great personal risk. Through their selfless service, they have elevated the global standing of Bangladesh and the Bengali language. In the 54 years since independence, few achievements shine brighter than the nation’s leadership in peacekeeping. We salute with deep gratitude and reverence the sacrifices of all Bangladeshi peacekeepers. May the winds of peace continue to spread across the world.

The writer is a journalist, columnist and global affairs analyst. He can be reached at emoncolumnist@gmail.com