Kazakhstan troops begin deployment to Golan Heights for peacekeeping mission
Kazakhstan's Peacekeepers Achieve Success on the Golan Heights
Kazakh military personnel have been making a significant impact in the Golan Heights since March 2024, when they took over the United Nations (UN) mission there. The current peacekeeping contingent, consisting of approximately 139 soldiers and 4 staff officers, has been successfully completing all assigned tasks.
Their primary duties include protecting UN bases, maintaining stability in the region between Israel and Syria, and helping to uphold the ceasefire and peace accords overseen by the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF). The contingent's efforts have been officially recognised, as they received medals in February 2025 for their achievements in protecting UN installations and contributing to regional stability.
Kazakhstan's involvement in the Golan Heights is part of a broader commitment to UN peacekeeping. Over 750 Kazakh servicemen have served in various UN missions, including Western Sahara, Lebanon, and Côte d'Ivoire. The country is also working to strengthen its peacekeeping capabilities through cooperation with NATO, enhancing training standards, language skills, and psychological preparation.
The first independent national peacekeeping contingent of Kazakhstan was deployed last year, marking a significant milestone. The selection process for the peacekeepers considered both professional and moral qualities of the candidates. Two women are part of the peacekeeping contingent, reflecting Kazakhstan's commitment to gender equality in peacekeeping missions.
The announcement of the remuneration for participation in an international mission has been made this year. A second national peacekeeping contingent from Kazakhstan is being sent to the Golan Heights, although details about its composition and training have not been disclosed yet.
Lieutenant Colonel Valikhan Baikenov, the head of the Center for Peacekeeping Operations of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Kazakhstan, is leading the country's peacekeeping efforts. The peacekeepers have enrolled on a voluntary basis, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in conflict zones.
As of early 2025, Kazakh peacekeepers are participating in six peacekeeping missions under the UN aegis. Their success in the Golan Heights underscores Kazakhstan's growing role in international peacekeeping and its commitment to upholding global peace and security.
Politics has been heavily influenced by Kazakhstan's success in peacekeeping missions, with the nation's efforts on the Golan Heights becoming a talking point in general-news discussions. The achievements of Kazakh peacekeepers have raised their country's international profile and highlighted their significant contribution to global peace initiatives.
