International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers - 29 May

Tags: Important Days

The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers is observed annually on 29 May.

An Overview of the News

• It is a day dedicated to honouring the contribution and sacrifice of United Nations (UN) peacekeepers.
• The day recognizes the efforts of peacekeepers in maintaining peace and security around the world.
• It also serves as a tribute to those who have lost their lives while serving as peacekeepers.
• The theme for the 75th anniversary of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2023 is "Peace begins with me".
• The theme acknowledges the service and sacrifice of peacekeepers, both past and present.

History of International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers

• It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2002.
• It aims to honour and remember the brave peacekeepers who lost their lives in the pursuit of global peace.
• May 29, 1948, marks the establishment of the first UN peacekeeping mission.
• On that day, the United Nations Security Council authorised the creation of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO).
• UNTSO's purpose was to oversee the implementation of the ceasefire in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.
• The establishment of UNTSO laid the foundation for subsequent peacekeeping efforts by the United Nations around the world.

United Nations Truce Supervision Organization

Headquarters: Jerusalem

Head: Major General Patrick Gauchat

Established: 29 May 1948