Cambodian UN peace keepers, also known as “Blue Helmets”, arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport on October 27. peace keepers centre
The Ministry of National Defence marked the 70th Anniversary of the formation of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), during Independence Day celebrations at Phnom Penh’s Independence Monument on November 9. The event was an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the Kingdom’s role in UN peacekeeping missions, highlighting the nation’s commitment to peace which followed the 1991 Paris Agreements.
The National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces (NPMEC) released a video chronicling its involvement in UN-backed peacekeeping operations since 2006.
“Cambodia hosted the UN Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) in 1992-1993, following the October 23, 1991, Paris Peace Agreement,” the documentary explained.
“After 12 years, and a comprehensive review of the Constitutional Framework of the Kingdom of Cambodia, then-Prime Minister Hun Sen officially committed to participating in peacekeeping missions under the UN’s broad umbrella,” it added.
In the past 17 years, Cambodia has deployed nearly 10,000 members of the RCAF on specialised missions including demining and the elimination of unexploded ordnance (UXO) on 12 missions across 10 countries.
“The RCAF, which is dedicated to peace, stability and global prosperity, has engaged in UN peacekeeping missions in crisis regions of Africa and the Middle East,” said Minister of National Defence Tea Seiha, as he addressed the event.
During the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York on September 23, Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed Cambodia’s continuing commitment to deploying blue helmet troops and providing support for increased official development assistance (ODA) to maintain peacekeeping activities.
“Cambodia is deeply committed to peacekeeping operations. It aims to contribute to international peace, security and stability, which are crucial for sustainable development,” he said.
“To enhance our contribution, Cambodia has chosen to participate in the Organising Committee of the Peace Building Commission (OCPBC) for the 2025-2026 mandate,” he added.
