Peacekeepers’ Day ceremony honours service and sacrifice of UN blue helmets |
Secretary General António Guterres began the commemoration by laying a wreath at the Peacekeepers Memorial at United Nations Headquarters, to pay homage to the more than 4,200 blue helmets that gave their lives over seven past decade.
‘Forever in our hearts’
He also honored the 117 peacekeepers who died last year.
“Our deceased colleagues come from 42 different countries and come from diverse backgrounds. But they were unite for a common goal: peace,” he speak.
“My deepest condolences to their family. They will remain in our hearts forever.”
United Nations International Day of Peacekeepers is held annually on May 29 to celebrate the contributions of uniformed personnel and civilian personnel serving in field campaigns.
Protect the most vulnerable
The Secretary-General said that he proud of the work of UN peacekeepers amid the “major and growing challenges” they face, such as growing political tensions, a deteriorating security situation, threats from terrorist attacks and violence fueled by an increase in misinformation and misinformation.
“They work tirelessly in the harshest conditions,” he said. “They adapt to rapidly evolving situations on the ground. And they continuously innovate to protect the most vulnerable – while also representing our diverse global community. They promote the greatest mission of all – peace. ”
Highest paying
However, he noted the tragedy is that sometimes peacekeepers don’t come home, before acknowledging the disappearance of Chad’s Captain Abdelrazakh Hamit Bahar, who this week received the Force’s top award. United Nations peacekeeping force.
Captain Abdelrazakh, 34 years old, killed in a daring counterattack against armed terrorists in northeastern Mali in April 2021.
His family was awarded the Captain Mbaye Diagne Medal for Special Courage, named in honor of a Senegalese peacekeeper who saved hundreds of lives while serving the UN in Rwanda in 1994, before being killed in the line of duty.
“Know that your beloved son and brother will always be missed. He is an inspiration for the UN family, in his home country of Chad, and around the world,” said Mr. Guterres.
Gratitude and Reward
The Secretary-General also expressed gratitude to the Government of Chad for its contribution to the United Nations Mission in Mali, known by its abbreviation France. MINUSMA. The country has paid a heavy price, he said, noting that its 74 peacekeepers have sacrificed their lives over the years.
The UN chief also presented a Letter of Commendation to Lieutenant Colonel Chahata Ali Mahamat, who stood shoulder to shoulder with Captain Abdelrazakh and helped evacuate 16 wounded colleagues.
Letters of commendation were also given to two other blue helmets: Sergeant Cristofer Jose Citan Ramos of Guatemala from MONUSCOUN Mission to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Captain Mohammad Mahatab Uddin of Bangladesh, serving with the UN Mission to South Sudan (MISS).
Gender advocate honored
Major Winnet Zharare of Zimbabwe was also presented with the Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award.
The former military observer, who completed her assignment at UNMISS, is a strong advocate for gender equality and the recognition of women as decision makers and leaders.
Major Zharare called for equality within his ranks, and between local military forces and host communities, the UN chief said.
“In South Sudan, she Diligent and diplomatic Her skills quickly earned the trust of local military commanders, who sought her advice on women’s rights and protection. Her approach has helped UNMISS strengthen ties with local communities and carry out its mission. ”
Mr. Guterres took the opportunity to highlight how women peacekeepers make a profound difference. Not only do they help the UN do its job more comprehensively and effectively, they save – and change – lives.
“That’s why we’re constantly working to increase the number of women participating in peace activities – whether military, police or civilian – and achieve gender equality everywhere,” he said. said the head of the United Nations.