Sapper Smith, a young peacekeeper from the United Kingdom, serving in the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus. Credit: UNFICYP
A day in a life of a peacekeeper in Cyprus
The (UNFICYP) was established by the Security Council in 1964 amidst ongoing inter-communal violence that killed hundreds of Cypriots and displaced many more in what became a divided island.
Created to prevent the escalation of violence and promote reconciliation between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities, the Force has worked alongside local authorities for more than 60 years to protect the people, culture, integrity, and heritage of Cyprus.
As we mark the , we hear from a young peacekeeper, Sapper Smith—one of the many soldiers from the United Kingdom who serve in the Force.
Learn more about why peacekeeping to him is “not just about uniforms, patrols, or procedures, but about allowing people to live normal lives in safety.”
Serving under the flag of the United Nations
On a typical day, I wake up at around 6 a.m. to prepare for physical training before starting my workday at around 8 a.m. Physical training is an important part of daily life during deployment because it keeps us fit, healthy, and ready for the demands of patrolling the buffer zone.
Whether it is running, circuit training, or working in the gym, it helps maintain both physical fitness and mental resilience while away from home.
After physical training, I normally head for breakfast. Breakfast is more than just a meal; it is a chance to sit down with colleagues and friends before the day begins. We talk about the day ahead and enjoy a warm meal together. It is a simple part of the day, but one that helps build morale and keeps everyone connected during deployment.
Once breakfast is finished, it is time to prepare myself and my uniform for the day ahead. Maintaining standards is important because, as peacekeepers, we represent not only ourselves but also the United Nations and our respective countries.
Ensuring a safe and peaceful buffer zone
Before any patrol begins, I must ensure I have the correct equipment to carry out my role safely and effectively. This includes essentials such as water, radios, a medical kit, and a stretcher. Checking equipment before patrolling is an important routine because it ensures both my partner and I are prepared for any situation we may encounter while carrying out our duties.
Once everything is prepared, we move into the buffer zone. Patrolling is one of the most important responsibilities we have as peacekeepers. During patrols, we monitor our section of the buffer zone for any unusual activity or changes to local positions and historic buildings. We also ensure that the UN mandate is being respected by everyone within the area.
The patrols themselves can vary greatly from day to day. Some days are quiet and routine, while others can involve dealing with concerns from local civilians or coordinating alongside UN police and other peacekeepers. Despite this, every patrol has the same purpose: maintaining stability and ensuring the buffer zone remains peaceful and secure for the people who live and work nearby.
Peacekeepers from UNFICYP patrolling the buffer zone, which is also called ‘the Green Line’, extending approximately 180 km across the island. Credit: UNFICYP
Allowing people to live normal lives in safety
Throughout my time patrolling the buffer zone, there have been a few moments that have stayed with me. During a joint patrol with the UN Police, I had the opportunity to work alongside my Indonesian counterpart.
While on patrol, we came across local farmers working in the fields. As we approached, they greeted us warmly, almost as though we were old friends.
That moment made me realize the importance of the UN mission. Seeing Cypriots able to work peacefully in their fields without fear showed me that our presence genuinely helps create stability and security. It reminded me that peacekeeping is not just about uniforms, patrols, or procedures, but about allowing people to live normal lives in safety.
Cooperation between different nations
UNFICYP has introduced me to many foreign military personnel whom I would never have met if I had not deployed to the mission. Working alongside people from different countries has been one of the most rewarding parts of the deployment.
It has been a great experience working with individuals who come from vastly different backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs, all united by the same goal of maintaining peace within and around the buffer zone. Although we may speak different languages or have different customs, everyone works together professionally and supports one another when needed.
Living and working in such an international environment has allowed me to learn a lot about other cultures and ways of life. It has also shown me how cooperation between different nations can achieve something meaningful. The friendships and experiences I have gained during the deployment are something I will remember long after the operation ends.
Nearly 1,000 people, including over 730 military personnel, serve in UNFICYP. Most military personnel come from the United Kingdom, Argentina and Slovakia. Credit: UNFICYP
Finding hope on the ground
My understanding of peace has changed during this deployment. Before coming here, I believed peace mostly existed because of the fear of repercussions, whether from law enforcement or authority figures. However, my experiences in the buffer zone have changed that perspective.
I now see peace as something built on mutual respect and trust, allowing citizens to live protected and normal lives free from the worries of conflict and instability. Seeing Cypriots go about their daily lives peacefully has shown me how important the UN mission continues to be.
This experience has given me hope that younger generations will be able to live peacefully because of the work being done today on the ground. I hope they will grow up able to coexist and overcome their differences and the circumstances of the past.
The importance of multilateralism for peace
Through UNFICYP, I have gained valuable experience both professionally and personally. Serving in a multinational environment has taught me the importance of cooperation, discipline, patience, and mutual respect between people from different cultures and backgrounds. It has also strengthened my understanding of the importance of peacekeeping and the role we all play in maintaining stability and security.
My deployment is scheduled to end in September 2026. When my mission is completed, I plan to return to the United Kingdom, to my home in Norfolk and continue contributing to peace and security through my professional duties and by sharing the experience and knowledge I gained during this deployment.
This experience has motivated me even more to support peace efforts not only for my country but also for the wider international community. It also helped me see how much multilateralism is necessary to solve conflicts. If the opportunity arises in the future, I would be proud to participate in peacekeeping missions again and continue contributing to international peace and cooperation.
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