UN Women statement on the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers
As conflicts continue around the world, peacekeeping remains essential—and central to the Women, Peace and Security agenda. On this International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, and 25 years since the unanimous adoption of Security Council Resolution 1325, we reaffirm that women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation is vital to effective peacekeeping and lasting peace.
We honour the courage and dedication of all peacekeepers—women and men—who serve in some of the world’s most fragile settings. We remember the more-than 4,000 who lost their lives in nearly eight decades of UN peacekeeping. We recognize the trauma many still carry and salute the strength of their families.
This year also marks 30 years since the Beijing Platform for Action called for women’s full participation and protection in conflict and peacekeeping. Together with Resolution 1325, it set a clear agenda. Delivering on it requires political will, resources, and action.
Promoting women’s participation and decision-making and protecting women and civilians at risk must be at the heart of effective peacekeeping. Through the Elsie Initiative Fund -now resourcing efforts in 15 countries- and the Women’s Military Peace Operations Course, UN Women is supporting more women to lead and serve on the front lines of peace.
We call for a world where conflicts are resolved through peaceful means, grounded in inclusion and equality. When women serve, missions are stronger, trust runs deeper, and peace lasts longer. With more women leading, peacekeeping stands its best chance to succeed.
