UN Peacekeeper Day: Championing partnership, shaping a peaceful future

The International Day of UN Peacekeepers is observed annually. It honors all men and women who serve in UN peacekeeping operations.

This day recognizes their professionalism, dedication, and courage. It also pays tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for peace.

The first UN peacekeeping mission began on 29 May 1948 in Palestine. In 2002, the UN General Assembly designated this date as the International Day of UN Peacekeepers.

Since then, ceremonies have been held to honor peacekeepers' service and sacrifice. Over two million peacekeepers have served to guide war-torn societies toward peace.

Currently, more than 76,000 military and police personnel serve in 11 UN missions. They work to uphold security amid global crises like terrorism and climate change.

Ghana is the seventh-largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN Peacekeeping. It has over 2,600 military and police personnel deployed in various regions.

This year’s theme for Peacekeepers Day in Ghana is: "The Future of Peacekeeping: Strengthening Partnership and Multilateralism." This theme focuses on addressing evolving global challenges.

It emphasizes that successful peacekeeping requires improved collaboration among member states. Reaffirming commitment through established international frameworks is essential for future conflicts.

Ghana exemplifies these principles with its long-standing legacy in peacekeeping. Since the late 1960s, Ghana has contributed troops, police, immigration officers, and prison officers.

Ghana was one of the first nations to respond to the UN's call for forces in Congo. Troops were deployed just 48 hours after the Security Council passed the resolution.

In 2004, Ghana established the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre. This institution shares Ghana's experience while learning from other nations’ expertise.

Ghana actively champions women's participation in peace operations. Ghanaian women peacekeepers have achieved historic milestones in missions.

Captain Cecilia Erzuah received the 2022 UN Gender Advocate Award. Major General Anita Asmah serves as Force Commander of UNDOF in Syria.

Brigadier General Edjeani-Afenu served as Deputy Force Commander for MINURSO. Commodore Faustina Boakyewaa Anokye also held a similar position with MINURSO.

Recently, Squadron Leader Sharon Mwinsote Syme was named Military Gender Advocate of the Year for 2024 by the United Nations.

These female peacekeepers have earned global respect for their dedication and professionalism. Ghana's story will inspire during upcoming observances worldwide.

Unfortunately, where the UN flag once symbolized security, it now risks making peacekeepers targets. Some have been killed in hostile incidents recently.

The changing nature of conflicts demands innovative solutions and stronger alliances. Renewed commitment between member states and organizations like ECOWAS is crucial.

Insights from reports on "Future of Peacekeeping" highlight proactive operations using technology and enhancing communication. Inclusive participation by women must be ensured as well.

Peace operations protect vulnerable populations and rebuild institutions after conflict ends. They support democracy—foundations necessary for lasting development and human potential.

On May 29th, we urge renewed global commitment from nations to support brave peacekeepers with resources needed for success.

This moment calls us to reaffirm our resolve for a future where partnership leads to enduring peace worldwide—from Ghana to every corner of the globe.