UN General Assembly
2011

remains the most legitimate and universally accepted international body with the ability to harness the global collective will necessary for the peaceful settlement of disputes through mediation. Bangladesh therefore commends the Secretary- General’s report on enhancing mediation and its support activities (S/2009/189) for promoting the better use of the United Nations mediation mandate, and co-sponsored resolution 65/283 on strengthening the role of mediation in the peaceful settlement of disputes, conflict prevention and resolution. To demonstrate its strong commitment to conflict resolution, Bangladesh has partnered in many United Nations endeavours for peace, democracy and development. Our contribution to United Nations peacekeeping of 102,294 peacekeepers in 52 missions and 36 countries has sadly led to the loss of the lives of 103 brave Bangladeshis. Our involvement also includes the first all-women United Nations police unit in Haiti. As Non-Aligned Movement Coordinator in the Peacebuilding Commission, Bangladesh is always advocating in favour of peacebuilding, development and preventive diplomacy in post-conflict societies. Unfortunately, we remain woefully underrepresented at the planning and strategy-making levels of the Department of Peacekeeping Operations, which should