INTERNATIONAL DAY

International Day of UN Peacekeepers

International Day of UN Peacekeepers is a global nod to something worth celebrating no matter which map you grew up with.

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Saturday, May 29Every year on May 29

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Roots: Established by the UN General Assembly in 2002
Vibe: A day of reflection and gratitude
Also on May 29: 529 Day · Coq au Vin Day · Paperclip Day
Hashtag: #InternationalDayOfUNPeacekeepers

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate International Day of UN Peacekeepers.

Read or watch something made outside the U.S. today.
Cook a dish from a country you've been curious about.
Donate to an international organization doing good work.
Learn one word in a language you don't speak.
Send a message to a friend who lives elsewhere.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Eat, watch, or listen to something from another country tonight.
Kids
Pick a country to learn about this week — flag, food, language, one famous person.
Couples
Plan a trip — real or imagined — to someplace you've never been.
Office
Celebrate a team member's heritage — food, holiday, tradition.
School
Tie the day into a geography, language, or world history unit.
Community
Support an international nonprofit with a local presence.
Just me
Read long-form journalism from outside the U.S. today.

Fast facts

More than 70,000Peacekeepers serve in various missions

More than 4,400Peacekeepers have lost their lives since 1948

The story

The International Day of UN Peacekeepers is a significant occasion that recognizes the invaluable contributions of peacekeepers in maintaining international peace and security. Each year, the observance promotes awareness of the work carried out by these dedicated individuals, who often put their lives at risk in the line of duty. Since the inception of UN peacekeeping in 1948, personnel from diverse backgrounds have engaged in complex missions across the globe.

Read the full story

Peacekeeping operations have evolved significantly over the decades, adapting to new challenges and complex conflicts. The United Nations currently operates more than a dozen peacekeeping missions in various regions, including Africa, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. These missions are comprised of military, police, and civilian personnel working together to protect civilians, support political processes, and assist in rebuilding war-torn societies.

In 2023, the United Nations marked the 75th anniversary of its peacekeeping operations. This milestone emphasizes the ongoing relevance of peacekeeping in a world where conflicts persist. Observances around the world include ceremonies, educational programs, and moments of silence, reflecting the commitment to peace and the importance of international cooperation.

As we honor the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, it is crucial to also acknowledge the sacrifices made by these individuals and their families. Their dedication to fostering peace and security serves as an inspiration for all of us to contribute to a more peaceful world. Engaging in conversations about peacekeeping and advocating for global stability is a meaningful way to commemorate this important day.

Did you know?

First Peacekeeping Mission

The first UN peacekeeping mission was established in 1948 in the Middle East.

Women in Peacekeeping

Women make up approximately 25% of UN peacekeeping personnel, with efforts to increase this number.

Nobel Peace Prize

The UN Peacekeeping Forces were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1988 for their efforts to maintain peace.

Global Reach

Peacekeepers come from over 120 countries, reflecting the global nature of their mission.

Annual Observance

The International Day of UN Peacekeepers was established in 2002 by the UN General Assembly.

Casualties

More than 4,400 peacekeepers have lost their lives in the line of duty since the inception of UN peacekeeping.

Peacekeeping Budget

The UN peacekeeping budget is approximately $6.5 billion annually, with contributions from member states.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesIn the U.S., various organizations host events to honor peacekeepers, highlighting their contributions to global stability.
ARArgentinaArgentina has a strong commitment to peacekeeping and has contributed thousands of personnel to UN missions.
CACanadaCanada celebrates its peacekeepers with ceremonies in many communities, emphasizing their role in international peace initiatives.
GBUnited KingdomThe UK recognizes peacekeepers’ efforts through various memorials and educational programs throughout the country.
FRFranceFrance honors its peacekeepers with national ceremonies, showcasing the importance of their dedication to humanitarian efforts.
INIndiaIndia is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, and its contributions are celebrated on this day.