YK Poudel

Bhutan’s peacekeeping military contingent (BHU LQRF) at the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) was awarded the UN Peace Medal on October 11.

The Special Representative of secretary general, Valentine Rugwabiza awarded the medals to the 180 personnel.

The award was in appreciation for the significant role the Bhutanese contingent played and the unflinching service towards peace and stabilisation.

RBA Chief Operations Officer Lieutenant General, Batoo Tshering said that His Majesty The King consistently emphasises that Bhutan’s involvement in UN peacekeeping demonstrates our unwavering support for the UN and gratitude for the assistance received as a member.

“His Majesty underscores the importance of our peacekeepers upholding professionalism and the highest standards in representing our nation. The award recognises Royal Bhutan Army’s exceptional service, integrity, and professionalism in carrying out their peacekeeping duties worldwide,” he said.

Special Representative of Secretary General Valentine Rugwabiza awarded the medals

The BHU LQRF also received recognition for “Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Force” award for green initiatives and projects towards reducing carbon footprints in the mission area.

Free medical services to the locals—contribution of construction materials, sports and stationery items are provided to the local inhabitants by the BHU LQRF.

Bhutan deployed the first ever peacekeeping military contingent to MINUSCA, upon the request from the UN in October 2022. The contingent will complete its year-long mission next month and will be replaced by second contingent from RBA.

In 2016, Bhutan deployed two staff officers at the mission during the establishment of MINUSCA in the Central African Republic.

Bhutan initially contributed uniformed personnel in 2014 to the UN Truce Supervision Organisation (UNTSO), the first-ever peacekeeping mission in the Middle East and MINUSCA.

In December 2017, Bhutan also became the first country to pledge rapid deployment of troops as part of the UN Peacekeeping Capability Readiness System.

Bhutan sent 270 Royal Bhutan Police and Royal Bhutan Army personnel have rendered their service as UN peacekeepers.