International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers

May 29, Wednesday

International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers is observed annually on May 29. This day was established by the UN General Assembly in 2002 to pay tribute to the men and women who serve in UN peacekeeping operations and to honour the memory of those who have given their lives for the sake of peace.

UN peacekeeping began in 1948, when the first UN peacekeeping contingent was created - the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNOSO), which was supposed to monitor the ceasefire in Palestine. Since then, UN peacekeeping missions have become an important tool of the international community for the prevention and resolution of conflicts.

Purpose of the holiday
Honoring peacekeepers. This day is dedicated to honouring all those who have served and are serving in UN peacekeeping missions around the world, helping to protect civilians, prevent conflicts and maintain peace in war zones.

Remembering the fallen. Since 1948, thousands of peacekeepers have died while doing their job in conflict situations. The International Day of UN Peacekeepers commemorates their sacrifice and serves as a day of remembrance for those who have lost their lives in the fight for peace.

Raising awareness of peacekeeping operations. The day also aims to draw global attention to the importance and challenges of peacekeeping operations and to highlight their contribution to maintaining global security and stability.

Events
Remembrance ceremonies. Wreath-laying ceremonies are held at UN Headquarters and other offices around the world to remember peacekeepers who have died in the line of duty.

Awards. On this day, peacekeepers can be awarded medals and badges of honour for their services.

Press conferences and events. The UN organises various public events to discuss current peacekeeping missions, the challenges they face and their achievements.

Awareness campaigns. On this day, international organizations conduct information campaigns aimed at drawing attention to the work of peacekeepers and the problems they face.

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International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers in other years

2021 May 29, Saturday
2022 May 29, Sunday
2023 May 29, Monday
2025 May 29, Thursday

International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers in other countries