The General Department of Politics of the Vietnam People’s Army has submitted a proposal and draft circular for the Ministry of National Defense to introduce a commemorative medal honoring contributions to UN peacekeeping operations.

Over the past 11 years, nearly 1,200 Vietnamese military personnel have taken part in United Nations peacekeeping missions. This involvement aligns with Vietnam's foreign policy of independence, cooperation, and development, and has significantly elevated the country's international standing and defense diplomacy efforts.

The missions also support Vietnam’s strategy of “defending the homeland from afar” by enhancing its international reputation and presence.

Vietnam’s peacekeeping efforts have been aided by the leadership of the Party and State, as well as support from various ministries and international partners.

The United Nations traditionally awards the “In the Service of Peace” medal to individuals serving in peacekeeping missions. Many countries also issue domestic awards or medals to recognize those deployed abroad, such as the "Overseas Service Medal."

To acknowledge and honor the contributions of individuals both within and outside the military - including Vietnamese nationals abroad and foreign allies - the Ministry of National Defense is proposing the “For the Cause of United Nations Peacekeeping” Commemorative Medal.

Who can receive the medal?

According to the draft circular, the medal will be awarded by the Minister of National Defense to individuals who have significantly contributed to Vietnam’s UN peacekeeping efforts. Eligible recipients include military personnel, public servants, civilian employees, Vietnamese expatriates, and foreign nationals.

Those currently under disciplinary review or who have received disciplinary actions such as official warnings or higher are ineligible until their disciplinary period concludes.

Criteria and structure

The award will be given to six key groups, including top leaders of the Party and State, heads of ministries, military commanders, civil servants, and international supporters.

Medals will be awarded annually on December 22 (Vietnam People's Army Day), May 27 (International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers), or on an ad-hoc basis as determined by the Minister of National Defense.

Design details

The medal consists of two parts:

Clasp: Rectangular (1.3 x 2.6 cm), red background with yellow trim, marked with the date "27-5".

Body: Features three flags (red, green, blue), a globe, and an outer ring with the inscription: “Vì sự nghiệp gìn giữ hòa bình Liên Hợp Quốc” and “Việt Nam”. The English version reads “For the cause of United Nations peacekeeping”.

The medal will be made of gold-colored alloy using embossing and enamel techniques.

The circular also outlines principles, procedures, documentation, entitlements, responsibilities, and how to handle violations, complaints, and appeals related to the awarding process.

Tran Thuong