The Security Council,

Recalling that maintenance of international peace and security is one of the purposes of the United Nations as set forth in the Charter,

Noting the essential role of United Nations peacekeeping operations in the maintenance of international peace and security,

Recalling also the presentation in 1988 of the Nobel Peace Prize to the United Nations peacekeeping forces,

Recognizing the sacrifice of those who have lost their life in the service of United Nations peacekeeping operations,

Remembering the more than 1,500 individuals from 85 countries who have died in United Nations peacekeeping operations,

1. Decides to establish the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal as a tribute to the sacrifice of those who have lost their life as a result of service in peacekeeping operations under the operational control and authority of the United Nations;

2. Requests the Secretary-General to establish, in consultation with the Security Council, criteria and procedures for bestowing and administering this Medal;

3. Requests Member States to cooperate, as appropriate, with the presentation of this Medal.