On the 29th of May 1948 the first UN peacekeeping mission the “United Nations Truce Supervision Organization” began its operations in Palestine.

In remembrance of this day, the UN General Assembly designated the 29th of May as the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers.

2020 marked the 20th anniversary of the adoption of UN Security Council resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, that year’s theme is “Women in Peacekeeping – A Key to Peace.” To acknowledge the crucial role female peacekeepers, fulfill in their missions.

Today, we as Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung want to honor the contribution the more than 110,000 peacekeepers in 13 peacekeeping missions are making for international peace and security.

Peacekeepers are at the frontlines on a daily basis. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic they continue to provide essential services to vulnerable communities.

They are risking their lives in hostile and foreign environments, and embody the much needed solidarity of our times.