Beyond Peacekeeping: Army’s Contribution to Economy, Soft Power and Diplomacy

Bangladesh is currently one of the largest troop contributors to UN peacekeeping missions. Bangladesh’s journey began in 1988 with the sending of a few military observers to the Iran-Iraq War Observation Mission. Since then, Bangladesh has participated in more than 60 peacekeeping missions in more than 43 countries and has sent nearly 200,000 troops. This participation has played a significant role not only in maintaining international peace but also in strengthening Bangladesh’s economy, international reputation and diplomatic relations.
Bangladesh’s participation in UN peacekeeping missions has gradually come a long way to its current position. In the first phase from 1988 to 1998, Bangladesh participated in peacekeeping operations in various countries with limited experience and resources and gained experience at the international level. In the second phase from 1998 to 2008, skills and confidence increased, and the ability to quickly deploy troops in large-scale missions was developed. Since 2008, Bangladesh has been playing an important role in global peacekeeping by participating in more complex and risky missions.
Bangladesh has been actively participating in UN peacekeeping operations since 1988. Currently, the country has deployed more than 5,600 military personnel in various regions of Africa and the Middle East. The Bangladesh Army is performing various military and support duties in a total of about 10 ongoing missions, including DR Congo, South Sudan, Mali, Lebanon and Western Sahara.
Bangladesh is playing a leading role in increasing women's participation in peacekeeping missions. The inclusion of women soldiers began after 2000, and currently more than 4,000 women are serving in the armed forces. They play important roles in various specialised units, including medical, engineering and aviation units.
Bangladesh's participation in UN peacekeeping missions is making a significant contribution to the country's economy. Bangladesh directly earns foreign exchange through UN peacekeeping operations. Currently, the UN pays about $1,428 per month for each peacekeeper. With more than 5,600 Bangladeshi peacekeepers deployed in different countries, about $96 to $127 million is added to the country's economy every year. Bangladesh has earned about Tk 27,941 crore from this sector in the past two decades, which has helped increase foreign exchange reserves.
At the personal level, peacekeepers also receive significant financial benefits. While the monthly salary of an ordinary soldier in the country is relatively low, they can earn several times more by participating in UN missions. As a result, they are able to invest money in the development of their families and society. Peacekeepers send about $150 million home every year, which has a positive impact on the development of the rural economy, education, housing, and small businesses. In addition, this income also helps to modernise the military and increase its technical capabilities.
Bangladesh has built strong soft power in the international arena through its participation in UN peacekeeping missions. International relations analyst Joseph Nye defines soft power as a type of influence that attracts others through a country's culture, policies, and humanitarian actions without military force or economic pressure. Bangladeshi peacekeepers have earned global acclaim for their professionalism, discipline, and humane behaviour.
In conflict areas such as Rwanda, Sierra Leone and South Sudan, Bangladeshi peacekeepers have not only ensured security but also provided education, healthcare and humanitarian assistance to the local population. In many cases, they have built schools, provided medical services and conducted agricultural development activities. These initiatives have helped build trust and friendly relations with the local population. At the same time, the United Nations has awarded Bangladeshi peacekeepers at various times in recognition of their bravery and sacrifice, which has further enhanced Bangladesh's international standing.
Participation in UN peacekeeping missions plays an important role in strengthening Bangladesh's strategic diplomacy and foreign policy. By conducting peacekeeping operations in different countries, Bangladesh has had the opportunity to improve bilateral relations with many countries in Africa, the Middle East and Asia. New avenues have been created to increase trade, investment and development cooperation, especially with different countries in Africa. At the same time, Bangladesh has been able to influence the international policy-making process by playing an active role in various UN forums and committees. Through peacekeeping operations, Bangladesh has established itself as a neutral, responsible and credible state, which is increasing the country's international status and strengthening its potential to participate in important international positions in the future.
Bangladesh's peacekeeping operations face some significant challenges. Many peacekeepers have lost their lives or been injured due to terrorist attacks, explosive devices and violence while working in various conflict zones. In addition, dependence on UN funding, equipment shortages, logistical problems and lack of direct control over mission policies or decisions pose major constraints for Bangladesh.
Bangladesh is one of the world's top contributors to UN peacekeeping missions. Along with Nepal and Rwanda, Bangladesh deploys a significant number of troops. However, Bangladesh is particularly praised for its impartiality, discipline, and the participation of female peacekeepers.
In the future, Bangladesh will need to enhance technology-based capabilities, modernise training, and increase women's participation in peacekeeping operations. At the same time, it is possible to further increase diplomatic influence by strengthening economic cooperation with African countries and expanding international training programmes.
Bangladesh's participation in UN peacekeeping missions has contributed significantly to the country's economic, diplomatic and international reputation. Through the deployment of a large number of troops, humanitarian assistance and professionalism, Bangladesh has earned a reputation in the world as a "champion of peacekeeping". By maintaining this continuity in the future, Bangladesh can play an important role in establishing global peace.

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The writer is a serving military officer