Since 1956, U.N. peace operations were stationed
At precise conflict points. This award was made
Honoring a half-million in 53 nations. Negotiation
And persuasion quieted conflicts where ceasefires were laid
But formal peace treaties were not yet concluded.
The role of this work was to ‘actively protect’ – to subdue
The tensions of those with past grievances – intervene –
With normalizing behaviors and actions, stop a feud
Between peoples, with their permission, and to be seen
As objective observers, some armed, a deterrent
To inflating tensions, and hatred’s undercurrents.
Many had died while serving in these peaceful missions.
Yet, ‘soldiers of peace as servants of non-violent transition’*
Proved hopeful for interdependent conflict resolution.
June Edvenson 