On May 25, which is International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, the UN will pay respect to the valiant men and women who served under the UN banner. Additionally, the 75th anniversary of UN peacekeeping is commemorated this year.
Among the 103 military, police, and civilian peacekeepers who will get the coveted Dag Hammarskjöld Medal posthumously for their devotion and heroic sacrifice in the line of duty are three Indians who will be honored for their commitment and bravery. Shishupal Singh and Sanwala Ram Vishnoi, members of the Border Security Force, worked as head constables with the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), while Shaber Taher Ali served in a civilian position with MONUSCO, the Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Head Constables Singh and Vishnoi, two Indian soldiers, sadly perished on July 26, 2022, in the city of Butembo, after fighting broke out following a week-long uprising by people against MONUSCO.
Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, said, “Peacekeeping is a powerful example of how strong partnerships and collective political will can result in meaningful change. Working together with local communities and other partners, our personnel protect civilians, advance political solutions, and help end conflicts in the pursuit of sustainable peace. We appreciate the support of all stakeholders to ensure that UN peacekeeping can continue to work as an effective multilateral tool for global peace and security.”
