On 29 May, we recognise those who have served either as military, police or civilians and continue to serve in United Nations peacekeeping operations for their high level of professionalism, dedication and courage and to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives in the cause of peace. This year’s theme, “Women in Peacekeeping: A Key to Peace,” was chosen as 2020 is the 20th anniversary of the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.
This year, our peacekeepers are facing what the Secretary- General has described as the greatest challenge since the Second World War: the COVID- 19 pandemic. Peacekeepers are deployed in many countries affected by the pandemic. They are continuing their operations to the best of their abilities and supporting the governments and the local populations despite the risk of COVID-19.
New Zealand supports United Nations peacekeeping operations, and regional peace support efforts, in the Pacific and other parts of the world.
To mark this day, the United Nations Associations of New Zealand put together an inspiring panel on women in peacekeeping, including:
- Cecile Hillyer, Divisional Manager, International Security and Disarmament Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
- Group Captain Carol Abraham, New Zealand Defence Force
- Wing Commander Jennifer Atkinson, New Zealand Defence Force
- Associate Professor Bethan Greener, Massey University and Senior Fellow, Centre for Strategic Studies, Victoria University
- Dr Negar Partow, Senior Lecturer in Strategic Studies Massey University and UNANZ Special Officer for the UN Security Council.
