Bearing the proud slogan “In war we stand, in peace we serve, everywhere for the nation,” the Bangladesh Army, born in 1971, has over time become a symbol of national hope and trust. From the blood-soaked days of the Liberation War to every crisis since, the Army has stood fearlessly beside the country and its people. Beyond war and disasters, its contributions to national progress and development are undeniable. In key sectors such as education, healthcare and construction, the Army’s disciplined work culture and professionalism have opened new horizons. Their support for education in remote regions, emergency medical services, infrastructure development and active role in economic advancement significantly contribute to the country’s overall growth. Alongside ensuring national security, the Army continues its tireless efforts to build a stable and prosperous Bangladesh. One of its greatest strengths is unity and a strong organizational structure.

This strength has earned international recognition as well. The Bangladesh Army’s brave and dedicated peacekeepers in UN missions are widely praised worldwide. Their professionalism and humanitarian values in restoring peace and stability in conflict zones set a shining example. They continually enhance Bangladesh’s image on the global stage. Most recently, on 28 November 2025, the United Nations publicly thanked Bangladeshi peacekeepers on its verified Facebook page, stating that more than 5,600 Bangladeshi military and police personnel are currently “Serving for Peace” across seven UN missions worldwide, protecting the most vulnerable while leaving their families behind.

Such recognition is not new. Bangladesh has earned numerous honors due to its peacekeepers’ role in establishing peace, protecting human rights, conducting civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) activities and training unemployed local youth for self-reliance. Bangladesh’s participation in UN peacekeeping began in 1988 with 15 military observers in the Iran–Iraq mission and further expanded in Namibia under UNTAG. Since then, Bangladesh has become a trusted global partner for peace.

A major milestone came in 1992 with a large deployment to Cambodia, followed by missions in Rwanda, Somalia and Bosnia. In Bosnia, Bangladeshi peacekeepers took over difficult responsibilities after the withdrawal of French forces. So far, Bangladesh has participated in 56 UN missions across 40 locations on four continents, deploying over 194,837 peacekeepers, including more than 3,040 women—an important contribution to global peace and women’s empowerment.

Bangladeshi peacekeepers receive world-class training at BIPSOT before deployment. Currently they serve in high-risk regions including DR Congo, Mali, CAR, South Sudan, Abyei, Western Sahara, Yemen and Lebanon. Through medical assistance and close engagement with local communities, they help make peace sustainable.

However, the journey has not been without sacrifice. A total of 168 Bangladeshi peacekeepers have laid down their lives. The first martyr abroad was Lt. Col. Fayjul Karim in Namibia (1989). In 2003, 15 Bangladeshi peacekeepers died in a plane crash in Benin, and in 2005, nine were killed in Congo. Despite landmines, ambushes and constant threats, Bangladeshi soldiers have continued to protect civilians with courage.

Their professionalism has earned international honors and appointments to high-ranking UN positions. In 2004, the BBC described Bangladesh as the “backbone” of UN peacekeeping.

The Bangladesh Army’s peacekeeping roles include armed protection, humanitarian assistance, demining operations, training local police, supporting governance and election monitoring. Bangladeshi engineers have saved countless lives through mine clearance. Peacekeepers also provide food, water and medical support in disaster-hit areas.

Their achievements have been recognized through numerous awards including UN Medals, commendations, the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal (posthumous), praise from Force Commanders and widespread appreciation from local populations and international media.

Through dedication and professionalism, the Bangladesh Army has become a trusted symbol of the United Nations’ peacekeeping efforts and a proud representative of Bangladesh on the world stage.