Enduring Dedication of Ethiopia's National Defense Force to Int'l  Peace

          By Haile Henok Tadele
In the ever-evolving landscape of global security, Ethiopia stands out as a beacon of peace and stability. With a rich history of peacekeeping deployments dating back to the Korean War in 1951, the country has cemented its role as a trusted partner in the United Nations' efforts to maintain international peace and security.

As the leading contributor of peacekeeping forces globally, Ethiopia has deployed its soldiers to conflict-torn regions across Africa and beyond. From the scorching deserts of Darfur to the lush plains of South Sudan, members of the Ethiopian defense Force peacekeepers have not only upheld their duty to protect civilians and restore stability, but have also made tangible improvements to local communities.

Through their tireless efforts, members of the Ethiopian Defense Forces have built schools, health clinics, and critical infrastructure, transforming the lives of those affected by conflict. Their unwavering commitment to serving the greater good has earned them widespread international acclaim, with the United Nations, the United States, Canada, and various military attachés lauding Ethiopia's invaluable contribution to maintaining peace and security around the world.

In 2022, three Ethiopian peacekeepers were posthumously honored at the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers ceremony, awarded the prestigious Dag Hammarskjöld Medal for making the ultimate sacrifice while serving under the UN flag. This recognition underscores the Ethiopia's National Defense Force longstanding history of participating in UN peacekeeping missions, a legacy that spans decades.

                         Achievements

Ethiopia's first deployment of troops to the Korean Peninsula in 1951 marked a pivotal moment, not only in the country's peacekeeping history but also in the trajectory of South Korea's remarkable economic transformation. The presence and dedication of the Ethiopian peacekeepers, who fought alongside their UN counterparts, played a crucial role in maintaining the fragile armistice and providing the necessary stability for South Korea to begin its journey towards economic prosperity.

The ENDF's involvement in Somalia's peacekeeping efforts has been equally significant. Since the early 1990s, the ENDF has been a consistent presence in the country, contributing to the stabilization of the region and the restoration of the Somali government's authority. Through their tireless efforts, the ENDF has been instrumental in securing key infrastructure, facilitating humanitarian aid delivery, and training local security forces, laying the groundwork for Somalia's gradual recovery.

The ENDF's peacekeeping role was also pivotal in Liberia's journey towards stability and prosperity. During the country's civil war, the ENDF deployed troops to support the UN peacekeeping mission, playing a vital role in disarming combatants, securing key locations, and facilitating the transition to a democratically elected government. The ENDF's steadfast commitment and professionalism contributed to the establishment of lasting peace, paving the way for Liberia's remarkable economic and social progress in the years that followed.

Furthermore, the ENDF's presence in Rwanda during the country's darkest hour was a testament to its unyielding dedication to global peace. Amid the horrific genocide, the ENDF's contingent worked tirelessly to protect civilians, provide humanitarian aid, and support the efforts to bring normalcy. The ENDF's actions during this period were instrumental in laying the groundwork for Rwanda's remarkable recovery and transformation into the thriving, peaceful nation it is today.

      International Acclaim

From the scorching deserts of Darfur to the Korean peninsula, the blue helmets of Ethiopia's peacekeepers have become a symbol of hope and security. As the world grapples with complex conflicts, the international community continues to recognize Ethiopia's steadfast commitment to global peace and stability, setting an inspiring example for others to follow.

The success of Ethiopia's peacekeeping operations has not gone unnoticed by the international community. The United States has repeatedly expressed gratitude for the role the Ethiopian National Defense Force plays in regional stability.

Canada has also commended Ethiopia's remarkable work in empowering and enhancing the participation of women in peacekeeping missions, with Larisa Galadza, the Peace and Stabilization Director-General of Global Affairs Canada, lauding the country's leadership in gender equality as Ethiopia has also notably made strides in promoting gender parity within its peacekeeping contingents. 

In 2016, the country reached 16% women's participation, surpassing the UN's target of 20% by 2020. This inclusive approach enhances the peacekeepers' ability to connect with local communities and address the unique needs of women and children.

Furthermore, the United Nations has described Ethiopia as one of its "strongest partners" in peacekeeping, with the UN Under-Secretary-General Jean-Pierre Lacroix recognizing the country's invaluable contribution. The success of the Ethiopian peacekeeping mission in the disputed region of Abyei has also been celebrated, with the mission receiving a medal reward from the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA).

                 Commitment to International Peace

Ethiopia's steadfast commitment to global peacekeeping, combined with its impressive track record of success and the international recognition it has received, is a testament to the country's dedication to promoting stability and security around the world. As the country continues to play a vital role in UN and AU peacekeeping missions, its legacy as a beacon of peace will undoubtedly inspire generations to come. 

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to this noble cause, stating that the Ethiopian army has sacrificed life and limb to protect the peace of all peoples, and that the country's defense forces are "symbols of peace wherever they go." 
Today, Ethiopia stands as the top contributor of peacekeeping forces globally, with over 8,300 uniformed personnel serving in various missions. This remarkable achievement underscores the nation's profound belief in the transformative power of peace and stability, and its unwavering dedication to fostering a more just and peaceful world.