Uniformed and civilian peacekeepers serve a vital role in maintaining and promoting peace in some of the world’s most challenging environments. This day serves to honor their dedication, bravery, and sacrifice.
Since 1948, when the first UN peacekeeping mission was established in the Middle East, more than two million men and women have served under the UN flag in more than 70 UN peace operations.Over 100,000 military, police and civilian personnel from 125 countries currently serve in 11 peacekeeping missions where they protect civilians and support peace efforts.
This year’s theme, “The Future of Peacekeeping,” reflects the evolving nature of peace operations in a complex and rapidly changing world. The UN is actively working to modernize and adapt missions for the challenges of the future.
At Headquarters, a series of events will commemorate the day, including a wreath-laying ceremony led by the Secretary-General to honor the over 4,400 peacekeepers who have lost their lives since 1948 - including 57 in the past year.
Schedule of Events at Headquarters on 29 May (all times EST):
- 12:00 (Noon) - Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix will be the guest at the noon briefing. It will be webcast live at UN TV.
- 14:45 - The Secretary-General will lay a wreath in honour of fallen peacekeepers at the Peacekeepers Memorial Site on the North Lawn. (If inclement weather, the ceremony will be held near the Chagall window in the Visitors’ Lobby). While UN Photo and UN TV will cover the ceremony, members of the UN press corps are invited. It will not be webcast live, but will be available on demand soon after the event.
- 15:00 - The Dag Hammarskjöld Medal, UN Woman Police Officer of the Year and UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year ceremonies will be held in the ECOSOC Council Chamber and transmitted live on UN Webcast.
Social Media Campaign
To mark this occasion, the Department of Peace Operations launched a social media campaign. During the month of May, we will share inspiring stories of peacekeepers and the powerful partnerships that drive progress, peace, and sustainable development, ultimately creating a better future for all. This initiative aims to raise awareness and foster continued support for the essential work of UN Peacekeepers worldwide.
We invite you to join our call to action by taking part in UN Peacekeeping's campaign by following @UNPeacekeeping on X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Tiktok and use the hashtags #PeaceBegins and #PKDay to share your own content.