UN honors 58 fallen peacekeepers and recognizes outstanding women in service

On May 30, 2025, a significant government meeting took place to honor the contributions of peacekeepers and recognize outstanding individuals in the field of peacekeeping. The event highlighted the awarding of the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal, which commemorates the sacrifices made by peacekeepers in the pursuit of global peace. This year, 58 fallen peacekeepers from 32 member states were posthumously honored, reflecting the ongoing commitment to remembering those who have lost their lives in service.

The Secretary-General of the United Nations opened the meeting with a moment of silence for the 4,004 peacekeepers who have died since the establishment of UN peacekeeping operations 77 years ago. He emphasized the importance of peacekeeping as a cornerstone of the United Nations and acknowledged the contributions of over two million individuals who have served in various missions worldwide. The Secretary-General also noted the need for adapting peacekeeping efforts to address contemporary challenges, including terrorism and misinformation.

A key focus of the meeting was the recognition of two exemplary women in peacekeeping: Squadron Leader Sharon Muinsote Simi from Ghana, awarded the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year, and Superintendent Zainab Gebla from Sierra Leone, honored as the UN Women Police Officer of the Year. Their achievements underscore the critical role women play in peacekeeping and the ongoing efforts to include diverse perspectives in peace processes.

Squadron Leader Simi was commended for her outreach efforts that strengthened community ties and addressed gender-based violence, while Superintendent Gebla was recognized for her initiatives that provided educational opportunities and sustainable income for women and children in her area of service. Their work exemplifies the positive impact that dedicated individuals can have in fostering peace and stability in conflict-affected regions.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for member states to continue supporting peacekeeping missions and to ensure that the contributions of peacekeepers are recognized and valued. The Secretary-General reiterated the importance of serving those who serve, emphasizing that the sacrifices of peacekeepers should never be forgotten. As the UN moves forward, the commitment to enhancing peacekeeping operations and empowering women in these roles remains a priority, reflecting a broader understanding of the complexities of modern peacekeeping.