Under the Blue Helmet: Life as a UN Peacekeeper in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

What is it like to deploy as a United Nations peacekeeper to one of the most challenging missions on Earth? Witness the staggering beauty of the Democratic Republic of the Congo - a country roughly the size of Western Europe - and see, through the eyes of Blue Helmets, how they confront the deadly conflict that has driven some four and a half million people from their homes since 2017.

This journey will cover thousands of miles of terrain - by helicopter, in an armored vehicle, and on foot patrols side-by-side with the peacekeepers who are risking their lives so that others may live in safety.

From the bustling capital of Kinshasa to Beni in the volatile northeast to the lush, remote region of Fataki, take a journey with peacekeepers as they perform their daily tasks in one of the UN’s most dangerous missions.

You’ll hear from the Congolese people as they express their hopes for the future and their plans to work for peace.

You’ll see the value of collective action as personnel from different countries come together to help promote peace and security in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

You will also see the personal side of the women and men who have travelled far from their homes to contribute to fight for peace and stability You will also see the personal side of the women and men who have travelled far from their homes to contribute to stability: how they cope, how they keep contact with their children, how they live.

This 360-degree film brings the viewer to the front lines of peace, providing a virtual experience of solidarity in action.

See the mission through the eyes of a Jordanian Police officer now on his fourth deployment with the United Nations; two Bangladeshis pilots who provide critical support to UN personnel in the field; and a Nepalese officer who’s well-worn photo of her son travels with her as she carries out her vital work on the ground.

At the heart of the mission are the people who will remain after peacekeepers complete their mandate. You’ll meet a former fighter who received critical assistance as he transitioned to civilian life. His story is a microcosm of the meaning of peacekeeping: empowering individuals to change society and build an inclusive and durable peace.

This 360-degree film brings the viewer to the front lines of the war against war providing a virtual experience of solidarity in action.