Major Abhilasha Barak has been honoured with the 2025 UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award, as announced by the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations on May 23, 2026. This recognition is a testament to her significant contributions in outreach and community engagement specifically aimed at women and adolescent girls. Additionally, her role in providing gender sensitisation training for peacekeepers has been commended.

Role in the United Nations Mission

Major Barak currently serves as the Commander of the Female Engagement Team (FET) within the Indian Battalion under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Her position marks a significant milestone in her career, as she is also acknowledged as the first woman combat helicopter pilot in the Indian Army. Her extensive work in engagement activities underscores her commitment to enhancing the status of women in peacekeeping missions.

#IndiaAtUN

Proud to announce that Major Abhilasha Barak has been awarded the 2025 @UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award.

She is serving with the Indian Battalion as the Commander of the Female Engagement Team (FET) in #UNIFIL. Major Abhilasha is also first woman combat… pic.twitter.com/FcAW3OFZul

— India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) May 22, 2026

In a post shared on social media platform X, the Permanent Mission highlighted Major Barak’s achievements and expressed pride in her recognition, making her the third Indian recipient of this award since its inception. Previous awardees include Major Suman Gawani in 2019 and Major Radhika Sen in 2024, indicating a continuing tradition of honouring Indian women in peacekeeping roles.

The Embassy of India in Beirut also publicly congratulated Major Barak on her award, recognising her significant contributions as the FET Commander of INDBATT-XXVI. Their statement was shared on social media, reflecting the esteem in which she is held within the diplomatic community and among her peers.

Significance of the UN Military Gender Advocate Award

The UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award has been bestowed annually since 2016, aimed at acknowledging military personnel—whether male or female—who demonstrate exceptional leadership and commitment to promoting the principles outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 1325. This resolution focuses on integrating a gender perspective in peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts.

Resolution 1325 calls for the inclusion of women in all levels of decision-making related to peace and conflict resolution. It also emphasises the necessity of protecting women and girls from conflict-related sexual violence, thereby advocating for their active participation in peace operations. The resolution aims to expand the roles and contributions of women in UN missions, which embraces the involvement of uniformed female peacekeepers.

By receiving this award, Major Abhilasha Barak’s efforts shine a light on the vital role women play in peacekeeping and underscore the importance of their involvement in broader political processes. The recognition serves to encourage more women to take on leadership roles within military operations and beyond, fostering a more inclusive environment within peacekeeping initiatives.

Continuing Legacy of Female Leaders in Peacekeeping

Major Barak’s achievement adds to the legacy of female leaders in the Indian military, particularly in international peacekeeping operations. The recognition she has garnered not only highlights her personal accomplishments but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of women in the armed forces.

The growing presence of women in military roles internationally has opened doors for greater representation and advocacy for gender-sensitive initiatives. This trend is reflected in the increasing number of awards and recognitions received by women in military service, demonstrating a shift towards inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

Major Abhilasha Barak’s dedication to supporting women’s issues in conflict zones, coupled with her military expertise, underscores the essential contributions women make in fostering peace and security worldwide. As she prepares to receive the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award, the impact of her work reverberates within both national and international communities.

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