BN Contribution and Activities UN Peace Keeping Missions

Bangladesh is a peaceloving country. This very fact is enshrined in the constitution of the Bangladesh with the foreign policy dictum “Friendship to all, malice to none”. Bangladesh on its quest to establish world peace has already made enormous contribution under the auspices of blue helmet. Today, Bangladesh is widely recognized as a brand name in the Peacekeeping domain and she firmly believes that it is her sacred duty to serve the humanity anywhere and anytime.

Bangladesh Navy (BN) on its quest to establish world peace has already made significant contribution under the auspices of blue helmet and widely recognized as an iconic entity in the peacekeeping reign. BN personnel have been participating in UN peacekeeping mission since 1993. So far, 6365 Officers and Sailors have participated in 30 UN peacekeeping missions with utmost sincerity and devotion.

A boat section from BN was deployed with Army contingent in UNIKOM post Gulf War-I in 1997 to patrol in the waterways demarcating the Iraq-Kuwaiti border as part of DMZ enforcement. Following that footstep, BN deployed the first independent Force Riverine Unit (FRU) in UN Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) in 2005 which continued till 2012.

In 2005, BN also deployed a Boat Detachment Unit in Ivory Coast (ONUCI) and operated for 11 years in the Lagoons of Abidjan.

One Bangladesh Riverine Unit (BANRU) was deployed in MINUSMA (Mali) with 133 personnel, 08 x High speed boat and o1 x LCT for 02 years since 2014. The BANRU was repatriated from Mali on 15 Dec 2015. All those deployments terminated with the establishment of peace and successful completion of UN Mandate.

Two BN ships were deployed in Maritime Task Force (MTF) of UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with total crew ceiling 320 in 2010. At present BNS SANGRAM is operating in the Mediterranean Sea successfully. Such deployment to a great distance in the Mediterranean Sea away from the home port is a true manifestation of BN operational and sustenance capability under the UN mandate.

Since June 2015, a Force Marine Unit (FMU) from BN has been deployed in UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). The unit is providing armed escort to UN hired barges by deploying Autonomous Vessel Protection Detachment (AVPD) onboard the barges/ pushers.

Since 2009, BN started deploying competent female officers as Staff Officer (SO)/ Contingent Member. A total of 47 female officers and 04 female sailors have so far participated in various UN Missions and 07 female officers are presently deployed in UN mission. Considering the role of women in promoting peace and security of mission areas, BN will also continue to deploy more female officers and sailors in UN Mission in days to come.

Besides these maritime units and riverine contingents, BN has been deploying its personnel as Military Observer, Military Liaison Officer and Staff Officer in UN Missions including DPO since 1993. The military observers are performing their tasks in various team sites and Staff Officers are employed in Force Headquarters and Sector Headquarters.

To carry out the challenging and dangerous activities under distress 04 (four) Bangladesh Navy personnel have sacrificed their lives and 09 (nine) were injured.

Activities Of Bangladesh Navy Ship And Contingents In Un Mission Area

UNIFIL (Lebanon). The first ever Multinational Maritime Task Force (MTF) under United Nation Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) was formed in 2010 to enforce UNSCR 1701 and 1884. Bangladesh Navy Ship (BNS) OSMAN (FFG) and MADHUMATI (OPV) joined the UNIFIL, MTF on May 2010 along with Brazil, Germany, Turkey, Greece and Indonesia. After successful completion of four years tour of duty both the BN ships were replaced by two new BN platforms i.e. BNS ALI HAIDER (FFG) and BNS NIRMUL (OPV) in the month of June 2014, with multiplied and diverse capability. At present BNS SANGRAM is operating in the Mediterranean Sea successfully. BN is proud to be a member of elite maritime task force of UN. The major tasks of BN ship in UNIFIL, MTF are:

1. Conduct surveillance and patrolling in the Area of Maritime Operation (AMO).
2. Conduct Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO) in Area of Maritime Operation (AMO).
3. Contribute to UNIFIL, AIR Surveillance.
4. Contribute to UNIFIL intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance (ISR).
5. Training of Lebanese Navy personnel.
6. Detect, locate, hail, positively identify and classify any vessel inside AMO.
7. Deter, escort and/ or handover all suspicious vessel to Lebanese authorities.
8. Conduct inspection boarding at sea onboard suspicious vessels.
9. Exercise self defense /area defense against all possible threats.
10. Provide force protection as required.

Peacekeeping Operations have been going on under the banner of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) to establish peace among the belligerent ethnics in South Sudan under Security Council Resolution 2155 (2014). For enhancing the peace process in general and protecting the barge carrying UN supplies and humanitarian assistance through White Nile River in particular, United Nations has included Bangladesh Force Marine Unit (BANFMU) in the beginning of 2015. BANFMU consisting of 200 personnel including 12 x High Speed Boat as LPC (6 x RHIB, 6 x DCB) fitted with heavy and light machine guns and other major and self sustainment equipment. Presently, BANFMU-9 is operating from Juba and Malakal of UNMISS (South Sudan). Bangladesh Navy is very proud to be a member of this multi dimensional force of UN. In this mission BANFMU is tasked with:

1. Provide armed escort to UN supply barges in order to secure movement of UN supplies,equipment and personnel.
2. Collect and report any intelligence.
3. Conduct search and rescue operations (SAR).
4. Protect designated ports and Riverine infrastructure.
5. Provide fire support to ground forces.
6. Conduct search and rescue operations (SAR).
7. Riverine Patrol (RP) operations.

CURRENT DEPLOYMENT OF BANGLADESH PEACEKEEPERS AROUND THE GLOBE

Completed Peacekeeping Missions Around The World

Summary Of All Deceased And Injured Peacekeepers

Summary Of All Female Peacekeepers Deployment In Un Mission

Navigating Peace: Bangladesh Navy's Participation in UN Missions

Since emerging as a sovereign state in 1971, Bangladesh has embraced a philosophy of global co-operation through peace and harmony, with the principle of 'Friendship to all, malice to none' at its core. Bangladesh, a nation deeply rooted in its commitment to global peace, has consistently demonstrated its resolve through active participation in UN peacekeeping missions. Since 1993, Bangladesh Navy (BN) has been a constant participant in such operations in diverse regions, from the deserts in Sudan to the jungles in Africa to the turbulent waters of Lebanon.

BN's contributions to peacekeeping extend beyond maritime and riverine operations. BN personnel have served in various staff roles, including Military Observers, Liaison Officers, and Staff Officers, contributing their expertise to the overall success of multiple UN missions. BN has prioritised gender inclusivity in its peacekeeping deployments, deploying female officers to various missions. This commitment to gender equality reflects Bangladesh's dedication to

promoting diversity and inclusivity in its international engagements. Notable deployments of Bangladesh Navy include a Boat Section in the UN Iraq-Kuwait Observation Mission (UNIKOM), a Force Riverine Unit (FRU) in Sudan, and a Boat Detachment Unit in Ivory Coast. BN also contributed a Riverine Unit to MINUSMA in Mali and has been actively involved in the maritime component with ships in the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) since 2010.

BN has supported the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) with a Force Marine Unit (FMU) since 2015, ensuring the security of vital UN supplies and conducting various security operations. Standing shoulder to shoulder with other global forces, Bangladesh Navy blue clad heroes demonstrated the steadfast commitment of Bangladesh to global peace and security. Their participation is a testament to the nation's role as a responsible member of the international community

Unveiling Navy's Non-Combat Roles: Peace Time Missions

As the defender of the sea area of Bangladesh, Bangladesh Navy remains vigilant at sea round the clock. The sea lines of communication, a vital lifeline for the nation, is a constant focus of the Navy's vigilance. By providing security to maritime trade and commerce, Navy contributes significantly to the country's economic prosperity.

Bangladesh Navy: A Pillar of Trust in MTF, UNIFIL

Bangladesh Navy has been widely regarded as a trusted and reliable partner in the Maritime Task Force (MTF) of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). With a true commitment to upholding the UN mandate, Navy plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability. Navy's dedication is reflected in its consistent participation in joint exercises with MTF ships, enhancing collaborative efforts and operational readiness. These exercises strengthen interoperability and underscore Bangladesh's ongoing contribution to international maritime security. Currently, Bangladesh Navy's presence is prominently marked by the deployment of a multi-role corvette BNS SANGRAM, in the UN mission. This vessel continues the legacy of Bangladesh's maritime forces on the global stage, embodying the nation's dedication to peacekeeping and international cooperation.

Celebrating Valour: UN Honours Bangladeshi Peacekeepers through Medal Parade

Medal parade is a prestigious occasion that recognises the bravery, sacrifice, and professionalism of peacekeepers who have served under the UN flag. For the Bangladeshi peacekeepers, this ceremony was a moment of great significance, celebrating their role in maintaining stability and security in conflict-affected regions. As the awards were presented, each medal symbolised not only individual commitment to duty, sacrifice, and valour but also a formal recognition of the collective spirit of Bangladesh Navy's mission.

Humanitarian Assistance and Community Support in Mission Area

Bangladesh Navy personnel have been actively involved in a range of initiatives aimed at uplifting local communities. Their efforts include providing essential medical support, which has been crucial in addressing health needs and improving overall well-being.

Bangladesh Navy's Sacrifice and Honour: A Tribute to Heroic Dedication

Bangladesh Navy has been demonstrating exceptional bravery and commitment in pursuing global peace and security, often at significant cost. The loss of four brave lives during UN mission stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve for the sake of international peacekeeping. Their dedication to UN's mission went beyond mere duty; it was a profound testament to their resolve to make a difference in some of the world's most challenging environments.

Lt Cdr M Ashraf Siddiqui (ex-personal number 1820) joined Bangladesh Navy on 19 July 2006, as an Instructor Sub-lieutenant in the Education Branch. On 20 May 2018, he was deployed in UN Peacekeeping Mission in UNMISS (South Sudan) as a Military Liaison Officer. On 26 June 2018, at approximately 1000 hrs (local time), he was killed in action (KIA) by a gunshot fired by an unknown armed group during an armed attack on a UNMISS Convoy near Yei, South Sudan. The UN and the people of South Sudan will remain ever grateful for his supreme sacrifice. UN recognised his heroic sacrifice by awarding him the DAG HAMMARSKJOLD Medal.