International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers in the United States

Date: May 29th

History and Significance: The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers was established by the UN General Assembly in 2002 to pay tribute to the professionalism, dedication, and courage of all the men and women serving in UN peacekeeping operations, and to honor the memory of those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of peace. The day was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of the creation of the first UN peacekeeping mission in 1948, known as the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), in Palestine.

Traditions: On this day, various events are held worldwide to commemorate those who have served and continue to serve in UN peacekeeping missions. In the United States:

• Ceremonies & Events: Military and diplomatic ceremonies may include laying wreaths, speeches, and exhibitions highlighting the work of peacekeepers.
• Educational Activities: Schools or community groups might organize learning sessions about the history and current impact of UN peacekeeping missions.
• Social Media Campaigns: Government agencies, NGOs, and individuals engage in social media campaigns to raise awareness about the role and contributions of peacekeepers.

What People Do: On International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers:

• People attend or participate in memorial services for fallen peacekeepers.
• Veterans' organizations may hold special events or discussions.
• Government officials often issue statements or press releases acknowledging the contributions of national personnel involved in peacekeeping.
• Educational institutions might host guest lectures or panels discussing international peace and security issues.

These activities aim to foster public understanding and support for international efforts geared toward maintaining global peace and security through UN missions.