United Nations peacekeeping: Dag Hammarskjöld Medal
Statement by Ambassador Peter Osvald, President of the Security Council, Permanent Representative of Sweden to the United Nations, 22 June 1997

For nearly half a century, the lives, security and future of countless individuals across the globe have depended on United Nations peacekeeping efforts, and on the peacekeepers participating in them.

Today, we express our gratitude to all those who have served the United Nations in the cause of peace. Over 750 000 men and women have served in UN peacekeeping operations. More than 1500 have lost their lives; many more have been wounded. This solemn meeting of the Security Council is held in tribute to their service and sacrifice.

Today, the Council is establishing the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal in recognition and commemoration of those who have lost their life as a result of service in peacekeeping operations under the operational control and authority of the United Nations. The medal is named after Dag Hammarskjöld, the second Secretary-General of this organisation, who greatly contributed to the development of the concept of peacekeeping operations, whose own commitment to the cause of peacekeeping was unwavering, and who lost his life while on mission to one of the many countries in which the United Nations has tried to build peace.

As we honour those who have died in United Nations peacekeeping operations, we must never forget our responsibility as members of the Security Council towards those participating in the operations whose mandates we establish. The Security Council must continue to ensure the proper discharge of its mandates and take every possible measure to enhance the safety and security of all those serving the United Nations in conflict situations. This we owe those men and women who are prepared to risk their lives for peace.

Dag Hammarskjöld once wrote that "no life was more satisfying than one of selfless service to your country - or humanity. This service required a sacrifice of all personal interests, but likewise the courage to stand up unflinchingly for your convictions." His life and death are perhaps a fitting symbol of what we honour today: commitment, service and sacrifice.