Context:

International Day of UN Peacekeepers is observed on May 29. On this day, tributes are paid to those people who have immensely contributed to the work done by the United Nations.

About:

• The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers is celebrated annually on May 29.
• This is the date when in 1948 the first UN peacekeeping mission named the “United Nations Truce Supervision Organization”, or UNTSO began operations in Palestine.
• Moreover, the day is also celebrated to honor more than 3,900 peacekeepers who have lost their lives serving under the U.N. flag since the year 1948.

India & UN Peacekeeping Operation:

• Indian Army has been taking part in UN peacekeeping operations since 1950.
• Units and troops of the Indian Army have been part of 49 UN Missions with over 1,95,000 troops having served in various parts of the world.
• Presently, India is ranked as the third-largest troop contributor to UN peacekeeping missions.

The Theme:

• The theme of International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2020 is “Women in Peacekeeping: A Key to Peace”.
• This theme has been chosen as it is the 20th anniversary of the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security.