Bangladesh earned Tk 862 crore from UN peacekeeping in FY2023-24

Bangladesh generated around Tk 862 crore in foreign currency from its involvement in United Nations peacekeeping operations during the 2023-24 fiscal year, according to Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman. He disclosed this figure in parliament while responding to a question from Chattogram-13 MP Sarwar Jamal Nizam.

The earnings stem from two main sources: allowances provided by the UN to peacekeepers, which they receive directly, and rental income for Bangladeshi vehicles and equipment utilized in the missions. This revenue is deposited into the government treasury. In the 2022-23 fiscal year, Bangladesh's income from these operations was Tk 1,266 crore, a notable increase from the Tk 1,833 crore earned in the fiscal year prior to that.

As of July 31, 2023, Bangladesh maintained a significant presence in UN peacekeeping missions, with 3,557 members of the Army, including 261 women peacekeepers. Additionally, 305 members of the Navy, 268 from the Air Force, and 11 police personnel were serving in these operations. The minister also highlighted Bangladesh's strengthening diplomatic ties, noting that 51 countries and various international organizations maintain embassies or diplomatic representation in Dhaka.