Editorial

Bangladesh in UN peacekeeping

We are proud of the soldiers
It is heartening to learn that Bangladesh's contribution to United Nation's peacekeeping operation is going to be the largest surpassing Pakistan which had been in the top slot till now. There will be as many as 10,203 Bangladeshi troops in total stationed abroad on 12 peacekeeping missions in countries like Ivory Coast, Liberia, Congo, Sudan, Sierra Leone, Ethiopia-Eritrea, East Timor, among others. Since their first inception in the UN peacekeeping mission in 1988, a gigantic number of 42,000 soldiers have participated in 31 peacekeeping missions around the world to date earning a huge amount in foreign currency.

But it probably was not the only motivation. Their skill, training, orientation have been put to best possible use. This is an international exposure at the highest level of peacekeeping that involves not only just routine duties but also serious situations like counter insurgency operation. Recently Bangladesh has, most deservedly, been given the commanding position in peacekeeping mission in Sudan, known as one of the most challenging operations. So they have gained a lot in terms of knowledge, experience and expertise. Many of them have even lost their lives in risky, hazardous engagements. It is without any doubt a matter of pride that these soldiers have been a part of fulfilling the noble and lofty ideals of the UN.

They can easily be termed as the positive image builders of Bangladesh, especially at a time when it has taken a serious beating. Bangladesh has had a lot of negative publicity abroad due to confrontational politics, misgovernance and widespread corruption. The valour and courage shown by these soldiers has earned name for the country. The whole nation is behind them in their courageous endeavour.