Bangladesh deploys 180 police personnel, including 70 women, to join the UN mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo. On Tuesday, August 26, 2025, 180 Bangladeshi police peacekeepers, including 70 female officers, departed Dhaka for Kinshasa to join the UN’s MONUSCO mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, aiming to stabilise the conflict-ridden nation. Led by Superintendent Jannat Afroz, they flew on a chartered plane.
Why This Matters for South Asia
Bangladesh’s consistent contribution to UN missions, with over 215 personnel currently deployed, enhances its global diplomatic standing and showcases South Asia’s commitment to international peace. The inclusion of female peacekeepers highlights regional efforts to promote gender equality in security roles.
Deployment Details
The contingent left Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at approximately 12:45 PM, as confirmed by a Bangladesh Police press release. Senior officials, including Additional Inspector General Khandkar Rafiqul Islam and Deputy Inspector General Rezaul Karim, were present to see them off. The United Nations Organisation Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) focuses on civilian protection and peace consolidation in the volatile eastern provinces.
Composition of the Contingent
The 180-member unit, known as a Formed Police Unit (FPU), includes 70 female officers—a landmark move in gender-inclusive peacekeeping. FPUs are trained to work as unified teams, handling tasks like crowd control and security operations that individual officers can’t manage. “This deployment underscores our commitment to global peace,” said a Bangladesh Police spokesperson.
Bangladesh’s Peacekeeping Legacy
Bangladesh has been a key contributor to UN missions since 1989, with police units active in the DRC since 2005 and female officers joining from 2011. Currently, 215 Bangladeshi police personnel serve in UN missions, with 178 in FPUs and 37 as individual officers. Over 21,816 personnel have completed UN assignments, earning international recognition.
Challenges in DR Congo
MONUSCO, established in 2010, operates in a complex environment marked by conflicts involving groups like the M23 rebels. The mission, with around 11,500 personnel as of April 2024, faces criticism from the Congolese government for failing to curb violence, prompting a planned withdrawal by December 2024. However, escalating clashes have paused this exit, with no timeline for further phases.
Regional and Global Context
The DRC’s eastern provinces, rich in minerals, remain unstable due to armed groups and foreign interference. The UN Security Council extended MONUSCO’s mandate in December 2024 to address these challenges. Bangladesh’s deployment aligns with international efforts to support peace, despite the mission’s uncertain future.
Impact on Bangladesh
This deployment reinforces Bangladesh’s role as a leading UN troop contributor, alongside countries such as India. It provides training and global exposure for its police force, while remittances from peacekeepers bolster the economy. “Our officers are proud to serve,” said a police official. The inclusion of women enhances Bangladesh’s advocacy for gender diversity in peacekeeping.
Background
MONUSCO, succeeding the UN Mission in the DRC (MONUC), was authorised in 1999 to monitor peace agreements post the Second Congo War. Its mandate includes protecting civilians and supporting government stabilisation efforts. Bangladesh’s involvement began in 2005, with female FPUs deployed since 2011, reflecting its long-term commitment.
What’s Next
As MONUSCO’s withdrawal remains on hold due to worsening security, the 180 police peacekeepers will face challenging conditions in the DRC. Bangladesh is likely to continue its peacekeeping contributions, balancing domestic priorities with global responsibilities. The mission underscores the crucial role of Bangladeshi personnel in stabilizing conflict zones, providing humanitarian support, and maintaining order. Despite risks, their presence reflects Bangladesh’s longstanding commitment to international peacekeeping and its reputation within the United Nations.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 27th, 2025
Follow SouthAsianDesk on X, Instagram, and Facebook for insights on business and current affairs from across South Asia.
