Bangladesh pledges specialized units for UN peacekeeping

Bangladesh today pledged to bolster United Nations peacekeeping operations through the deployment of specialized military and police units, the enhancement of female participation, and the introduction of advanced technological solutions.

This commitment was announced by Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain during Bangladesh’s national statement at the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial held in Berlin, Germany.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh’s pledges encompass the following: deployment of specialized military and police units; ensuring 15 percent female representation within police contingents; implementation of an AI-integrated system for camp surveillance and response; and the installation of 1.8 MW solar panels across existing UN missions to promote environmental sustainability.

“These commitments underscore Bangladesh’s steadfast support for the UN’s peacekeeping framework and reflect our focus on modernization, inclusivity, and operational efficiency,” stated Mr. Hossain.

The Foreign Adviser is leading the Bangladeshi delegation at the ministerial meeting, which has convened delegates from over 160 nations, marking the largest gathering of peacekeeping nations to date.

The delegation also includes Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser on Defence and National Solidarity Development Lt Gen (retd) Abdul Hafiz, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Armed Forces Division, and the Bangladesh Police.

As a panelist in a parallel session, Lt Gen (retd) Hafiz emphasized the critical need to enhance peacekeeper safety and security through effective training and the responsible application of technology, including artificial intelligence, in the field.

In another high-level session, Foreign Adviser Hossain voiced concerns regarding resource constraints within UN peacekeeping operations and called for urgent international action to address existing funding gaps.

He further emphasized the necessity for intensified efforts to ensure the protection of civilians and the safety of peacekeepers in increasingly complex operational environments.

Mr. Hossain also highlighted the importance of fostering strong partnerships among host governments, troop- and police-contributing countries, field peacekeepers, and the UN Secretariat when modifying mission mandates.

On the sidelines of the conference, the Foreign Adviser held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Liberia, Panama, Eswatini, Guinea, the Czech Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

He also engaged in discussions with the Director General of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Deputy Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS).

Bangladesh, a leading contributor of troops to UN peacekeeping operations, reiterated its enduring commitment to global peace and security through its effective and responsible participation in UN missions.

This article has been posted by a News Hour Correspondent. For queries, please contact through [email protected]
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