Cyprus News Agency

The UN provided information on the service and sacrifices of personnel serving in peacekeeping operations around the world.

According to UN data, more than 2 million people have served as UN peacekeepers in different regions around the world since 1948. Currently, more than 65,000 personnel from over 100 troop- and police-contributing countries are serving in UN peacekeeping operations.

It was stated that peacekeeping personnel provide conflict-affected communities with security, stability and hope for a better future. More than 4,400 peacekeepers have lost their lives while on duty.

It was noted that the UN does not have its own military or police force and relies on personnel contributions from member states for peacekeeping operations.

In addition to duties such as protecting civilians and supporting peace processes, peacekeeping personnel carry out activities including providing free medical and veterinary services, supporting access to water, assisting schools and orphanages, and contributing to infrastructure projects such as roads and bridges.

The UN also highlighted Malaysia’s contribution to peacekeeping operations this year. Malaysia was reported to provide more than 500 peacekeeping personnel to the UN, 66 of whom are women. Malaysia was noted to be serving in five UN peacekeeping missions.

The statement said Malaysia first participated in UN peacekeeping operations in October 1960 as part of the United Nations Operation in the Congo and has since taken part in more than three dozen UN peacekeeping operations.

Malaysian peacekeepers are currently serving in UN operations in Abyei, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lebanon, South Sudan and Western Sahara. They were reported to conduct patrols, protect civilians and contribute to medical camps in rural areas.

The UN commemorated the 30 Malaysian peacekeepers who have lost their lives while on duty.