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 80 years.
Under this year’s theme, Invest in Peace, the United Nations calls for decisive action. Peace does not happen by accident, it requires political will, sustained financing and collective commitment. Investing in peace saves lives, prevents wider conflict, and reduces far greater humanitarian and financial costs over time.
This year, the United Nations Office at Geneva will mark the International Day of UN Peacekeepers on Tuesday, 2 June 2026, 3 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, 2 June 2026, 3 p.m.
United Nations Memorial (Ariana Park)
Palais des Nations
3:00 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. Alessandra Vellucci, Director of the Information Service, United Nations Office at Geneva,
Speech by Mr. Laurent Attar-Bayrou, President of the International Association of Peacekeepers (IASP)
Speech by Her Excellency Ms. Céline Jurgensen, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva
Speech by His Excellency Mr. Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Indonesia to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva
Speech by Swiss Armed Forces (name TBC)
Photo opportunity
3:30 p.m. End of the ceremony