When medical doctor Shi Wei from the Chinese mainland joined the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), he never imagined how close he'd come to death along the Israel–Lebanon Blue Line. Serving as Medical Officer Operations, Shi faced daily tensions and crossfire that tested his skills and resilience.
Back at the military hospital where he once worked, Shi Wei reflects on the moments that changed him: treating wounded civilians under mortar fire, coordinating emergency evacuations, and forging bonds with peacekeepers from over 30 countries and regions. 'Every life saved was a victory for peace,' he recalls, 'but witnessing loss so close to the front line stays with you.'
His UNIFIL deployment also revealed broader global health challenges. Shi led training programs for local volunteers in trauma care and teamed up with NGOs to deliver supplies to remote villages. UN data show his unit handled over 5,000 consultations in six months, underscoring the scale of his mission.
These experiences inspired the documentary Blue Helmets, No Borders, premiering September 16 on CGTN. The film follows Shi and fellow peacekeepers as they navigate life-and-death situations in conflict zones, offering a human portrait of international solidarity.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, Shi Wei's story is a powerful reminder that individual commitment can ripple across borders. His journey from hospital wards to front-line trenches shows how compassion and courage can shape a more peaceful world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
