UN Chief Pays Tribute to Thousands of Peacekeepers Who Died in Service

UN Secretary-General António Guterres laid a wreath at the Peacekeeping Forces (UNIFIL) Memorial Site on the north lawn of UN Headquarters in New York City on Friday, honouring thousands of peacekeepers who have died serving under the UN flag over the past seven decades. ‘A short while ago, I laid a wreath in memory of the nearly 4,500 individuals who have lost their lives since the United Nations began peacekeeping operations nearly 80 years ago,’ he said. ‘Sadly, as events this week remind us, peacekeepers continue to face danger in the pursuit of peace, and we pay the highest tribute to their service and sacrifice.’ The commemoration followed the recent observance of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, which honours the dedication and service of peacekeepers deployed across various regions of the world. Guterres highlighted the vital role of UN peacekeeping operations, which continue to be conducted in some of the world’s most challenging environments. ‘Across the globe, the UN Blue Helmet is a symbol of hope for people in their most difficult times. UN peacekeeping operations have proven to be one of the international community’s most effective responses to conflict,’ he stated. According to Guterres, more than 50,000 peacekeepers are currently serving in various missions worldwide, protecting civilians, reducing violence, supporting political processes, assisting with elections, facilitating humanitarian aid delivery, and helping with landmine clearance. The UN chief described peacekeepers as ‘protectors of the vulnerable’ and ‘guardians of hope’ in regions plagued by conflict and instability. He also expressed appreciation for all personnel currently serving under the UN flag and reaffirmed the organisation’s support for their missions. ‘I am always inspired by the women and men who wear the UN Blue Helmet. They are protectors of the vulnerable and guardians of hope in places where hope is often in short supply,’ Guterres said. He reiterated his gratitude to the personnel serving under the UN flag and affirmed the organisation’s commitment to continue supporting their missions.