UN Peacekeepers Ceremony 2026

We invite you to join us in commemorating the annual United Nations Peacekeepers Ceremony, which honours 79 years of service and sacrifice by Australian Peacekeepers. We look forward to your participation in this meaningful commemoration.

This ceremony pays tribute to the more than 65,000 Australians who have served in peacekeeping operations and especially to those who made the ultimate sacrifice or returned profoundly impacted by their service.

We are honoured to have Lieutenant Commander Travis Robinson (the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation, UNTSO) deliver the reflection. Deployed on Operation Paladin – the ADF’s contribution to the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation – the nursing officer was leading a three-person on-foot patrol, call sign ‘Victor’, when an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded on March 30, 2024.

Joining him is Ms Remah Naji, who is of Palestinian heritage. She will discuss the current geopolitical context and the vital necessity of UN Peacekeeping missions today.

The ceremony will feature a performance by The National Servicemen’s Memorial Band, followed by morning tea provided by The Queensland Country Women's Association (CWA).

[Program]

1. The Pipes & Drums National Servicemen’s Memorial Band ‘Nasho’ Band performance

2. MC Dr John Fowler, Vice President UNAAQ

3. Open the event, UNAA President Dr Donnell Davis

4. Reading of the UNSG Peacekeeper Day message- Valentina Botero

5. Introduce Lieutenant Commander Travis Robinson ADF

6. Introduce UQ lecturer Remah Naji

7. Reading of the Ode of Remembrance- Uniting Church Chaplain Diane Bos

8. The last post

9. ‘Nasho’ Band performance

10. CWA morning tea

About UNAAQ

Established in 1946, the United Nations Association of Australia is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to a future where the United Nations can be more effective—because more Australians are engaged global citizens, committed to upholding the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

• No March for this event.

• Cost: Free, but registration is essential for in-person attendance. Please support the work we do by becoming a member!