Desk News
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has reaffirmed Bangladesh’s strong commitment to United Nations peacekeeping operations, describing the country’s participation as “a responsibility to humanity” under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
Speaking at the Second Ministerial Conference on Peacekeeping in a Francophone Environment held in Rabat on May 20, the state minister highlighted Bangladesh’s longstanding contribution to promoting international peace and stability through active participation in UN peacekeeping missions around the world.
According to a Foreign Ministry press release issued on Thursday, May 21, Shama Obaed said Bangladesh considers peacekeeping not only an international obligation but also a humanitarian commitment. She stressed the importance of strengthening global peacekeeping efforts in the face of evolving geopolitical and security challenges.
During her speech, the minister placed particular emphasis on the Women, Peace and Security agenda, stating that greater inclusion and empowerment of women are essential for more effective peacekeeping and peacebuilding operations. She noted that women peacekeepers continue to play a vital role in conflict resolution, civilian protection and community engagement in mission areas.
Referring to emerging threats in modern peace operations, Shama Obaed warned about the growing impact of misinformation, digital harassment and the misuse of technology in conflict environments. She called for ethical and responsible use of technology to address these challenges and ensure the safety of both peacekeepers and civilians.
The minister also underscored the need for comprehensive reforms in UN peacekeeping operations. She advocated for clear and realistic mission mandates, adequate logistical and financial resources, and stronger consultations with troop- and police-contributing countries. She further stressed the importance of enhancing safety and security measures for peacekeepers serving in volatile regions.
Highlighting Bangladesh’s institutional preparedness, she pointed to the role of the Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operation Training in providing robust pre-deployment training for peacekeepers. She also reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to environmentally sustainable peacekeeping practices.
Reaffirming the country’s support for multilateralism, Shama Obaed noted that Bangladesh remains one of the largest contributors to United Nations peacekeeping missions worldwide. Paying tribute to the 174 Bangladeshi peacekeepers who sacrificed their lives in international missions, she praised their dedication and service to global peace.
The state minister further said Bangladesh’s peace-oriented foreign policy, shaped by Ziaur Rahman and strengthened under former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, continues to guide the country’s global engagement and diplomatic priorities.
She also highlighted Bangladesh’s ongoing initiatives in social protection, education reform and women’s empowerment, describing them as key pillars for sustainable peace and long-term stability.
The conference was jointly organised by the governments of Morocco and France, where the forum was launched in 2016. Sadia Faizunnesa was also present at the event.
Later in the evening, Shama Obaed attended the Global Growth Conference 2026 as a keynote speaker in a session titled “Geopolitics of Fragmentation: Power, Escalation and Strategic Reordering,” where she shared Bangladesh’s perspective on shifting global power dynamics and the strategic implications of increasing international fragmentation.
