International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers
On 29 May, International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, we recognise the Australian men and women, and those from around the world, who have donned the blue beret and served as part of international peacekeeping forces.
This year the theme for the day is ‘People. Peace. Progress. The Power of Partnerships.’ This theme is demonstrated through the wide range of Australian men and women who have answered the call and served in more than 50 peacekeeping operations, from military personnel to police officers and civilians. Tragically 16 Australians have lost their lives during peacekeeping operations.
In 1947, Australians were part of the very first group of UN military observers in the world, and were the first into the field in the Netherlands East Indies (now Indonesia). Since that time, Australian peacekeepers have served in locations ranging from the Middle East to Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Cyprus, East Timor, Bougainville and many more.
Around Australia this weekend, services will be held to commemorate International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, including events in Brisbane and Canberra.
In September 2022, a national service will be held to recognise the 75th anniversary of Australia’s involvement in peacekeeping operations, and to honour those who served and those who lost their lives during peacekeeping operations. More information on the commemorations will be published soon on the DVA website.