On the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, officially celebrated on 29 May of each year, we promote the tangible impact of peacekeeping and pay tribute to the dedication, professionalism, and courage of personnel who serve in missions around the world.
It is also a moment to reflect on the sacrifice made by peacekeepers who have lost their lives serving the cause of peace under the UN flag over the past 76 years.
This year’s theme, “The Future of Peacekeeping”, reflects the evolving nature of peace operations in a complex and rapidly changing world. The UN is actively working to modernize and adapt missions for the challenges of the future.
This year, the United Nations Office at Geneva will mark the International Day of UN Peacekeepers on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, 4 p.m. Join us for a ceremony at the United Nations Memorial in the Ariana Park of the Palais des Nations.
PROGRAMME
Commemoration of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers
Tuesday, 3 June 2025, 4 p.m.
United Nations Memorial (Ariana Park)
Palais des Nations
4.00 p.m. United Nations flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony at the United Nations Memorial with the representatives of the United Nations Office at Geneva, of the Permanent Missions, and of the International Association of Peacekeepers and observance of a minute of silence
Speech by Ms. Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General, United Nations Office at Geneva,
Speech by Mr. Laurent Attar-Bayrou, President of the International Association of Peacekeepers (IASP)
Speech by Major General Germaine J.F. Seewer, Head of International Relations Defense, Swiss Armed Forces
Speech by His Excellency Mr. Emmanuel Antwi, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Ghana to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva
Speech by His Excellency Mr. Vincenzo Grassi, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Italy to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva
Photo opportunity
4.30 p.m. End of the ceremony