United Nations news recently highlighted the celebration of the International Day of Solidarity with personnel detained or missing in the course of their mission around the world. A MONSUCO spokesperson in Beni reported worrying figures, revealing that since 2021, one hundred and forty-two UN personnel have been detained, including fifteen in 2022, with twenty-two still remaining in captivity.
The profession of peacekeeper is inherently dangerous, exposing peacekeepers to constant risk in conflict zones such as Afghanistan, Cyprus, Lebanon, Iraq and Haiti, as well as in eastern DRC . This day of solidarity aims to raise awareness of the danger faced by UN personnel when carrying out their mission of maintaining peace and promoting the ideals of the United Nations.
It is important to emphasize that locally recruited staff members are often the most exposed, facing unacceptable threats to their safety. This day allows us to demand justice and security for these professionals who work tirelessly for the well-being of humanity and sustainable development. Since the creation of the United Nations in 1945, many men and women have lost their lives serving this organization with professionalism, courage and dedication.
This international day of solidarity highlights the commitment and sacrifices of UN staff, highlighting the importance of their work and the need to ensure their safety and protection. Let us express our gratitude to these unsung heroes who risk their lives for a common ideal: peace and international solidarity.
To find out more about this subject, I invite you to consult these articles already published on the blog: [link 1], [link 2], [link 3].