International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2026

The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers is observed annually on May 29. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2002, the day honors the dedication, service, and sacrifice of the military, police, and civilian personnel who serve in United Nations peacekeeping operations. It also remembers those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of peace and highlights the continuing need for collective action in addressing global peace and security.

The Role of UN Peacekeepers

Since the establishment of the first UN peacekeeping mission in 1948, over two million peacekeepers have served in more than 70 operations around the world. From post-conflict transitions in Namibia to protecting civilians in Mali, peacekeepers have played a vital role in helping societies move from conflict toward stability.

Key contributions of UN peacekeepers include:

• Protecting Civilians: Peacekeepers help safeguard vulnerable populations affected by armed conflict and unrest.

• Supporting Transitions: They provide support for elections, rule of law, and political processes to promote long-term peace.

• Delivering Assistance: Peacekeeping missions often coordinate humanitarian aid, health services, and infrastructure support.

• Promoting Gender Equality: Peacekeepers advocate for the inclusion of women in peace processes and work to prevent gender-based violence.

History of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers

The United Nations General Assembly established the observance in its resolution 57/129, designating May 29—the date of the launch of the first UN peacekeeping mission, the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) in 1948. Since then, the day has provided an occasion to recognize the contributions of those who serve in peacekeeping operations and to honor the more than 4,400 peacekeepers who have lost their lives under the UN flag.

Each year, ceremonies are held around the world to pay tribute to peacekeepers and to renew commitments to peace, stability, and international cooperation.

Observance of International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2026

In 2026, the International Day will once again honor the legacy of UN peacekeepers and recognize current missions facing complex and interconnected challenges. The day will include formal ceremonies, awareness campaigns, and events highlighting their work.

Planned activities include:

• Wreath-Laying Ceremony: A tribute to fallen peacekeepers at the Peacekeepers Memorial at United Nations Headquarters.

• Medal Awards: The Dag Hammarskjöld Medal will be awarded posthumously to those who lost their lives in peacekeeping service.

• Recognition Ceremonies: Awards will be presented to the United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year and the United Nations Woman Police Officer of the Year.

• Media Campaigns: Through the “Peace Begins with Me” and “Service and Sacrifice” campaigns, the UN will raise public awareness of the realities and risks faced by peacekeepers.

How You Can Make a Difference

The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers invites individuals and communities to reflect on the value of peace and the responsibilities we all share in building a more secure world.

Ways to show support include:

• Raise Awareness: Share stories and resources about peacekeeping efforts around the world.

• Honor Service: Participate in local observances or moments of silence for fallen peacekeepers.

• Learn and Engage: Educate yourself and others on the role of peacekeeping in today’s world.

• Promote Peace in Daily Life: Advocate for peaceful solutions in your community, and support inclusive dialogue and cooperation.

As we mark the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers 2026, we recognize the courage, service, and commitment of those who serve under the UN flag. Their work protects lives, builds futures, and reminds the world that peace is not only possible it is worth striving for.

International Day of UN Peacekeepers Themes (2019–2026)

Year	Theme	Description
2019	Protecting Civilians, Protecting Peace	Marked the 20th anniversary of the first UN mandate to protect civilians, recognizing peacekeepers’ role in safeguarding communities and sustaining peace in conflict zones.
2020	Women in Peacekeeping: A Key to Peace	Celebrated the contributions of women peacekeepers and the 20th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, highlighting women’s leadership in mission effectiveness and human rights.
2021	The Road to a Lasting Peace: Leveraging the Power of Youth for Peace and Security	Emphasized the critical role of youth in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and decision-making, while honoring young peacekeepers worldwide.
2022	People. Peace. Progress. The Power of Partnerships	Highlighted collaboration among peacekeepers, host communities, regional organizations, and partners as a foundation for sustainable peace and mission success.
2023	Peace Begins with Me	Honored the dedication of UN peacekeepers and encouraged individuals everywhere to contribute to peace through everyday actions and global solidarity.
2024	Fit for the Future: Building Better Together	Reflected on more than 75 years of UN peacekeeping, calling for innovation, adaptability, and collective responsibility to address evolving global security challenges.
2025	The Future of Peacekeeping	Stressed the need to modernize peacekeeping operations in an increasingly polarized world, highlighting reforms, new commitments, and honoring fallen peacekeepers.
2026	The Future of Peacekeeping	Continues the focus on adaptation and modernization, addressing complex and high-risk environments through technological innovation, stronger partnerships, and renewed commitment to peace.

Connection to the Sustainable Development Goals

The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers 2026 is closely linked to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through its documented focus on peacebuilding, institutional support, and international cooperation.

SDG 5: Gender Equality – Peacekeeping missions promote women’s participation in peace processes, protect against gender-based violence, and support inclusive security frameworks.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – UN peacekeepers work in post-conflict societies to help bridge social, political, and economic divides.

SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – Peacekeeping operations assist in rebuilding justice systems, supporting rule of law, protecting civilians, and strengthening public institutions.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Peacekeeping relies on collaboration among Member States, regional organizations, civil society, and local communities to maintain international peace and security.

How the Event Is Observed

The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers 2026 is observed through official ceremonies, public awareness campaigns, educational programs, and memorial tributes organized by the United Nations and Member States worldwide.

At United Nations Headquarters, observances typically include a wreath-laying ceremony at the Peacekeepers Memorial, presentation of the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal to honor fallen peacekeepers, and recognition of outstanding personnel through awards such as the United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year and Woman Police Officer of the Year.

Peacekeeping missions around the world also hold local ceremonies, community outreach events, and media initiatives to highlight the work and sacrifices of peacekeepers serving in complex environments.

Key Facts at a Glance

Date: 29 May 2026
Established by: United Nations General Assembly Resolution 57/129 (2002)
First observed: 2003
Historic reference: Launch of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) in 1948
Global scope: International
Primary focus: Honoring peacekeepers and promoting global peace and security

Frequently Asked Questions – International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers 2026

What is the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers 2026?
It is a United Nations observance held annually on May 29 to honor the service and sacrifice of military, police, and civilian personnel serving in UN peacekeeping operations worldwide.

Why is May 29 chosen for this observance?
May 29 marks the anniversary of the establishment of the first UN peacekeeping mission, the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), launched in 1948.

Who established the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers?
The observance was established by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution 57/129 in 2002.

How many peacekeepers have served under the UN flag?
Since 1948, more than two million peacekeepers have served in over 70 UN peacekeeping operations worldwide.

How does peacekeeping contribute to sustainable development?
Peacekeeping missions create secure environments, support the rule of law, and strengthen institutions, laying the foundation for long-term development and stability aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.

How can individuals observe this day?
Individuals can participate in awareness campaigns, attend local commemorations, share educational resources, and promote dialogue and peaceful solutions within their communities.

References

United Nations Peacekeeping. “International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers.”
https://peacekeeping.un.org/en/international-day-of-un-peacekeepers

United Nations General Assembly. “Resolution 57/129.”
https://undocs.org/A/RES/57/129

United Nations Peacekeeping. “History of Peacekeeping.”
https://peacekeeping.un.org/en/history-of-peacekeeping