IUNVA Marks International Peacekeepers’ Day
Photos by John O’Byrne
The Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA) today marked the International Day of UN Peacekeepers at Arbour Hill. The earlier planned annual commemoration to coincide with 29 May (UN Peacekeepers Day) was cancelled due to Covid-19 restrictions. Today’s event was in full compliance with Covid-19 guidelines.
The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, offers a chance to pay tribute to the uniformed and civilian personnel’s invaluable contribution to the work of the United Nations and to honour more than 3,900 peacekeepers who have lost their lives serving under the UN flag since 1948, including 102 last year.
The Covid-19 pandemic has brought new challenges, but peacekeepers around the world are continuing their operations to the best of their abilities and supporting the governments and the local populations, despite the risk of Covid-19.
The theme for this year’s Day is “Women in Peacekeeping: A Key to Peace” to help mark the 20th anniversary of the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.
As we commemorate the 20th anniversary of Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, we must do more to achieve women’s equal representation in all areas of peace and security. Together, let us continue to wage peace, defeat the pandemic and build a better future.
Secretary-General António Guterres
At Arbour Hill, United Nations veterans, Defence Forces personnel and members of An Garda Síochána paid tribute to the 96 Irish who lost their lives while on UN service, including civilian personnel, members of the Defence Forces and An Garda Síochána.
Also today those in attendance marked the retirement of Assistant Commissioner of An Garda Síochána Patrick Leahy.
John O’Byrne was there to capture the event.
