Six Bangladeshi peacekeepers were killed and eight others were injured in a terrorist drone attack on a United Nations (UN) base in Sudan on December 13. This incident highlights the risks that Bangladeshi ‘Blue Helmets’ face on a daily basis, a fact that is sometimes obscured by their commitment and professionalism. The tragedy highlights how crucial the Bangladeshi soldiers have been to advancing world peace over the past thirty years.
A Journey Rooted in Principle articulates Bangladesh’s commitment to global peace, rooted in its own historical experiences of conflict, particularly the Liberation War of 1971. This deep understanding of the cost of war informs the nation’s constitution, which prioritises contributions to international peace and cooperation. Beyond military efforts, Bangladeshi peacekeepers embody diverse roles, including engineers, doctors, educators, and social workers, who actively contribute to rebuilding war-torn societies. They focus on fostering resilience by providing essential services such as clean water, infrastructure development, and medical assistance, emphasising a holistic approach to peace that extends beyond the battlefield.
This vow was first realised in 1988 with a small group of military observers sent to the UN Iran–Iraq Military Observer Group (UNIIMOG). What began as a modest initiative quickly transformed into a significant peacekeeping legacy. Today, Bangladesh has seen over 160,000 personnel from the Bangladesh Army, Bangladesh Navy, Bangladesh Air Force, and Bangladesh Police participate in more than 50 missions, establishing itself as one of the top two contributors of uniformed personnel to the UN and demonstrating a strong national commitment. As of September 30, 2025, there were 5,649 members actively involved in various missions, including approximately 400 women.
This enduring commitment to UN Peacekeeping yields significant domestic benefits. It fosters professional development for our soldiers and police, exposing them to various cultures and environments, which in turn strengthen our armed forces and law enforcement. Additionally, foreign currency gained through UN reimbursements is crucial for our national economy, aiding in military and police modernisation and further investments in training and equipment. This partnership is mutually beneficial, enhancing our nation’s capabilities and global standing while serving the international community.
The role of Bangladeshi peacekeepers extends beyond traditional security responsibilities, encompassing various aspects such as reconstruction and humanitarian aid. In some of the world’s most volatile regions, Bangladeshi contingents serve as vital agents of reconstruction and hope. For example, in Sierra Leone, they played a crucial role in ending a civil war and later implemented educational and vocational programs to empower the local population. In Haiti, they spearheaded infrastructure reconstruction following natural disasters, and in the DRC, their medical teams have addressed healthcare crises and provided humanitarian assistance. This comprehensive approach highlights the essential role of peacekeepers in promoting sustainable peace that goes beyond mere military presence.
The Bangladesh Army Corps of Engineers plays a crucial role in peacebuilding by developing vital infrastructure in conflict areas. They have constructed extensive road networks, bridges, and restored airfields, connecting isolated communities to essential services and assistance. In South Sudan, their roadworks have been instrumental in linking the capital to regional states, facilitating recovery efforts.
The Healers and Educators initiative highlights the role of medical teams in operating UN-standard hospitals and conducting free medical camps in post-conflict zones, where critical care is often lacking. The program emphasises the importance of civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) activities, where peacekeepers contribute by building schools, offering veterinary services, and training local farmers in effective cultivation techniques. This approach fosters partnerships rather than occupations, helping to build trust and affection within host communities, which is essential for successful peace support.
The uniform of peacekeepers symbolises both duty and danger, drawing threats rather than shielding against them. Over 170 Bangladeshi soldiers have sacrificed their lives for global peace, with each fatality serving as a profound loss felt deeply by their nation. The recent deaths of six peacekeepers in Sudan, reflect this enduring saga of sacrifice. These individuals, whose lives were cut short, fought not for national borders but to uphold human dignity under the United Nations’ flag. They fell victim to various attacks, including ambushes and drone strikes, highlighting the perilous nature of their mission. Their sacrifices underscore that true peace is achieved through relentless courage, dedication, and, ultimately, bloodshed.
The Blue Helmets of Bangladesh symbolise the nation’s hopes and the collective aspirations of the world’s distressed populations. Their commitment to professionalism, impartiality, and discipline has set a high standard in UN peacekeeping. While society often celebrates cricketers, actors, singers and content creators for their contributions, it is crucial to recognise UN peacekeepers as true celebrities. They not only represent the nation but also enhance its pride by fostering stability and peace, often at the cost of their own lives.
In commemorating our fallen heroes, we must ensure their sacrifices lead to a renewed commitment to peace. The Bangladesh Army’s’ legacy in peacekeeping exemplifies how a young nation, through the valour and dedication of its disciplined forces, can become a significant source of strength in the global pursuit of tranquility. We honour our departed by perpetuating their mission: safeguarding the vulnerable, rebuilding the broken, and ensuring that the blue flag of peace remains prominent in every troubled region worldwide.
The writer is the Chairman-in-Charge, Department of Journalism and Media Studies, BGC Trust University Bangladesh
