When conflict sweeps across regions, UN peacekeepers don blue helmets and step in to protect civilians. In the groundbreaking CGTN documentary “Blue Helmets, No Borders: Part Two – The Mission Blue,” viewers head to Africa, where China sends the lion’s share of its peacekeeping force.
From the arid plains of Mali to the vast swamps of South Sudan, members of the Chinese Infantry Battalion face some of the toughest conditions on the planet. They patrol remote villages, escort humanitarian convoys and build infrastructure—all while staying vigilant against sudden attacks. In 2016, the tragic losses of Shen Liangliang in Mali and Yang Shupeng and Li Lei in South Sudan served as stark reminders that each life on the front lines carries both duty and sacrifice.
Through on-the-ground footage and interviews embedded with CGTN correspondents, “Mission Blue” captures not only the grit and courage of these peacekeepers but also their compassion and connection with local communities. Beyond checkpoints and patrols, teams help dig wells, train first responders and support schools—efforts that often go unseen but build trust and hope.
As global challenges evolve, the documentary highlights how UN commitments demand adaptability, teamwork, and unwavering resolve. For young global citizens and changemakers, the stories of these blue helmets underscore a universal truth: peacekeeping is more than orders—it’s about embracing new challenges, forging partnerships, and safeguarding the future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
