IPB Statements – IPB – International Peace Bureau

Statement by the International Peace Bureau on the Recent Violence in Syria’s Coastal Regions

The International Peace Bureau (IPB) expresses deep concern over the recent escalation of violence in Syria’s coastal regions, particularly affecting the Alawite community. This surge in conflict threatens the region’s fragile stability and underscores the urgent need for concerted international efforts to protect vulnerable populations and promote lasting peace.

On March 6, 2025, coordinated attacks were initiated by loyalists of the ousted President Bashar al-Assad against government security forces in the coastal town of Jableh. This ambush resulted in the deaths of several security personnel and marked a significant escalation in the region. In the aftermath, insurgent groups disseminated misinformation, alleging that the new government was targeting coastal communities, thereby inflaming sectarian tensions.

The government deployed reinforcements to the affected areas in response to the initial attacks. Clashes ensued, leading to severe casualties among the Alawite community, including children, the elderly, and civilians unaffiliated with the Assad regime. Between March 6 and March 8, Syria’s coastal regions, particularly the Latakia and Tartus provinces, experienced severe violence resulting in significant casualties among the Alawite community: initial estimations indicate the death of more than 1000 people, including hundreds of civilians, by extremists, foreign fighters, and Islamist groups.

Particular areas like Banyas, rural Latakia, and rural Japleh, have faced incidents of ethnical cleansing and revenge attacks on unarmed people.

Entire families—doctors, pharmacists, teachers, and innocent infants who had yet to experience life—have been mercilessly slaughtered. These tragic events have led to mass displacement, with thousands of Alawite civilians fleeing their homes. Many sought refuge at the Russian Khmeimim Air Base in Latakia province, seeking protection from the escalating violence.

International Response

The international community has expressed deep concern over these incidents, emphasizing the need for restraint and the protection of civilians to prevent further escalation and ensure regional stability.

United Nations: Geir Pedersen, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, has voiced alarm over the intense clashes and the resulting civilian casualties, emphasizing the imperative to protect non-combatants.
Neighboring and global Nations: Germany has urged Syrian authorities to avoid a “spiral of violence” following recent clashes. Similarly, Jordan’s foreign ministry supported Syria’s security measures and condemned any foreign interference that could destabilize the region. Additionally, the United Arab Emirates condemned the attacks and reiterated its support for Syria’s stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
Human Rights Organizations: Various NGOs have called for immediate investigations into reports of targeted killings based on religious affiliation, highlighting the potential for these acts to constitute war crimes or crimes against humanity.

The International Peace Bureau urgently calls upon the international community to:

Protect Civilians: Implement immediate measures to safeguard all civilians, particularly vulnerable communities such as the Alawites, from ongoing and future attacks.
Request the Syrian Government to take responsibility and protect innocent people: The new Syrian government should take decisive actions to halt current hostilities and prevent recurrence, ensuring that security operations are conducted within the bounds of international law and with utmost respect for human rights.
Ensure Accountability: Advocate for impartial investigations into alleged human rights violations, hold perpetrators accountable for crimes against humanity, deter future atrocities, and uphold justice.
Promote Dialogue: Facilitate inclusive dialogue among all Syrian factions to address underlying grievances, promote reconciliation, and build a sustainable peace framework.

The international community must not stand idle in the face of such barbarity. Immediate action is imperative to protect the remaining Alawite population and to hold those responsible for these crimes accountable. The sanctity of human life and the principles of justice demand nothing less.

The IPB remains committed to supporting peace initiatives in Syria and stands in solidarity with all communities affected by this tragic conflict.

2024 Seán MacBride Peace Prize: Honoring Indigenous Women Peacebuilders in Manipur, India and Peacebuilders in Israel-Palestine

21 February 2025, Berlin, Germany

The 2024 Seán MacBride Peace Prize honors the selfless efforts and dedication of organizations and individuals who promote healing, restoration, and human rights while embodying the principles of peace amidst diversity. This year, the prize is awarded to two joint organizations and three outstanding Indigenous women whose work reflects bravery, resilience, nonviolence, and genuine peacebuilding.

IPB Statement on Democratic Republic of Congo

The International Peace Bureau expresses deep concern regarding the advance of the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo including in the regional capital of Goma. To this day and despite international humanitarian law, humanitarian assistance remains blocked outside Goma, while the population is still deprived of access to drinking water, electricity, Internet, sufficient food and adequate health care – the capacity of hospitals is saturated. The ongoing violence not only endangers the stability and well-being of the people of the DRC but also threatens peace and security across the whole region.

Statement by the International Peace Bureau on Current Developments in the Middle East

The Middle East faces profound challenges threatening regional stability and international peace. Prolonged conflicts, political upheavals, and humanitarian crises have underscored global and regional stakeholders’ urgent need for collective action. Amidst these challenges, the resilience and perseverance of the region’s people remain a testament to hope and the critical importance of working together toward sustainable peace.

This statement highlights key regional developments and the International Peace Bureau’s (IPB) urgent call for action to address these pressing issues.

Ceasefire Agreement Between Hamas and Israel

A ceasefire agreement has been reached between Hamas and Israel following 15 months of relentless violence in Gaza. This period has led to devastating human losses—over 45,000 deaths and 150,000 injuries, the majority of which have affected women, children, and the elderly. More than 1.5 million civilians have been displaced, and Gaza’s infrastructure has suffered catastrophic damage, with 90% of medical facilities rendered inoperative. Acute food, water, medical supplies, and electricity shortages have left the humanitarian crisis at a breaking point.

The ceasefire includes the phased release of hostages, starting with women and children, alongside ongoing negotiations for the release of all captives. It also outlines the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces with measures to ensure border security, the safe return of displaced civilians to northern Gaza with safeguards against weaponization, and a significant increase in humanitarian aid to address Gaza’s urgent needs.

IPB commends the ceasefire as a step forward and calls on all parties to adhere to its terms. The safety and well-being of affected communities must remain a priority. Furthermore, the international community must ensure unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid and provide robust support to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which is vital in supporting Palestinian refugees.

Sustainable peace also requires opening the labor market to Palestinian workers and addressing the economic devastation caused by years of conflict. Reconstruction must follow the principles outlined in ILO Recommendation 205, focusing on decent work, quality public services, and collaboration with local stakeholders.

The IPB urges all nations to engage in constructive dialogue, uphold international law, and recommit to a two-state solution as outlined in United Nations Security Council Resolutions 242 and 338. Accountability for war crimes and acts of genocide must also remain a cornerstone of justice.

Developments in the West Bank

The situation in the West Bank has deteriorated despite the ceasefire, with an alarming increase in violence and settler attacks on Palestinian communities. The expansion of settlements continues to violate international law, exacerbating tensions and further displacing vulnerable populations.

IPB strongly condemns these actions and calls for the immediate cessation of settlement activities per United Nations resolutions. The rollback of sanctions that previously constrained settlement expansion has only emboldened illegal activities and deepened divisions.

The international community must reaffirm its commitment to a two-state solution and actively pursue de-escalation measures to protect civilians and restore hope for peace.

Evolving Situation in Syria

The ongoing violence and instability in Syria remain deeply concerning. Targeted attacks against civilians, particularly minority communities, have resulted in widespread fear and suffering, with over 150 deaths reported in a single month.

International sanctions on Syria have further crippled the nation’s economy, hindering essential services and exacerbating poverty. While sanctions aim to address security concerns, they must not disproportionately harm vulnerable populations. A balanced approach is vital—one that supports humanitarian efforts and economic recovery while addressing accountability and governance challenges.

The IPB calls on Syrian authorities to honor their international commitments under United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254, which provides a framework for democratic governance and free elections. Rebuilding efforts must prioritize human rights, inclusivity, and reconciliation to lay the groundwork for lasting peace.

Call to Action

The International Peace Bureau calls on all stakeholders to act decisively:

Uphold the Hamas-Israel ceasefire, ensure civilian protection, and commit to peaceful conflict resolution.
Support justice, accountability, and reconciliation efforts, including bolstering UNRWA’s mission and funding.
Enforce international law and advocate for a two-state solution to address the root causes of violence in the West Bank.
Help rebuild Syria’s economy and governance while ensuring that sanctions do not harm the most vulnerable.

Wars and violence yield nothing but devastation. The IPB reaffirms its dedication to fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and peace. Sustainable solutions require mutual understanding, open discussions, and collaborative efforts. Let this moment serve as an opportunity to unite and pursue justice, dignity, and peace for all.

IPB Condemns the Violent Attack on Nouveaux Droits de l’Homme: Call for Accountability and Justice in Cameroon

Cameroon | 20 January 2025

The recent violent burglary at the offices of Nouveaux Droits de l’Homme (NDH-Cameroon) is a grave assault on human rights defenders and civil society. This act, aimed at silencing NDH’s critical work, highlights the growing threats faced by NGOs advocating for justice and freedom.

As the International Peace Bureau (IPB), we strongly condemn this attack and call for a thorough investigation by the authorities to ensure accountability in Cameroon. We urge all institutions to respect the rights of NGOs to operate free from fear and intimidation.

We stand in solidarity with NDH-Cameroon, including our IPB Council Member and Executive Director of NDH-Cameroon, Cyrille Roland Bechon, along with all its members and community. We reaffirm our commitment to defending the rights of all human rights defenders in the face of such challenges.

Sign the Call: Urgent Call for Unity and Action for the Betterment of Liberia

You can sign the call here.

Since October 2024, Liberia’s House of Representatives has faced leadership struggles, escalating tensions, and growing public distrust. Protests, a fire at the parliament, and deep divisions highlight the urgent need for action.

This letter calls on the leaders of the Reform and Loyalist Blocs to unite and address vital issues such as economic development, education, healthcare, anti-corruption, peacebuilding, and youth empowerment. By signing and sharing, YOU contribute your voice to a collective call for Liberia’s leaders to put aside differences and prioritize the nation’s future. This petition is open for signatures from individuals and organizations until 24 January 2025.

Join us in advocating for meaningful change and national unity in Liberia.

Legislative Deadlock and Democratic Challenges in Liberia’s House of Representatives: October 2024 to Present

By Tyson Smith Berry Jr., Executive Director, 4Kids International/Council Member, International Peace Bureau

Since October 2024, Liberia’s House of Representatives has faced a serious democratic crisis filled with leadership conflicts, internal rifts, and growing public frustration. This turmoil has not only interrupted the legislative process but has also raised significant concerns about the stability of Liberia’s democratic institutions and governance.

Statement from the International Peace Bureau (IPB) on the Current Situation in Syria and Aspirations for Its Future

The International Peace Bureau (IPB) celebrates alongside the Syrian people the end of the Assad regime’s rule and brutal crackdown in Syria – the scenes of liberation produce hope of a national recovery and transformation to a new inclusive and democratic future for Syrians. The nation has endured immense suffering since the outbreak of conflict in 2011. The initial protests’ rapid escalation into a devastating civil war has already resulted in the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives, the displacement of millions both internally and externally, and the near-total destruction of the country’s infrastructure.

A Needed Step to Strengthen the Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zones (NWFZs) Regime

By: Enkhsaikhan Jargalsaikhan, IPB Board Member and Blue Banner Chairman

Growing importance of NWFZs

Nuclear-weapon-free zones (NWFZs) are important and practical regional measures of non-nuclear-weapon states (NNWSs) in promoting the goals of maintaining strategic stability, nuclear non-proliferation and strengthening confidence among states. Today there are more than 115 states the territories of which cover about 84 mln km²of the world’s landmass, representing 39% of its population and making up almost 60% of United Nations membership. Thus much has been achieved in the past half a century. However, the past rich experience should serve as a tool of strengthening and broadening further the NWFZ regime leading to creating a nuclear-weapon-free-world (NWFW). When oceans and seas that cover about 70% of the Earth’s surface are to be included, the NWFZ regime would cover most of the NWFW.

A Call for Solutions to Safeguard Democracy in South Korea

Statement | Berlin, Germany | 13 December 2024

The International Peace Bureau (IPB) stands in unwavering solidarity with the people of South Korea, whose courage and resilience have risen as a powerful defense against the erosion of democratic principles and the unconstitutional declaration of martial law. Recent events highlight a grave misuse of power and blatant violations of constitutional law by the government and military leaders. We believe this is a reversal of the hard-won gains of the people-led democratic movement of South Korea and a setback to democracy in South Korea that took root after the people’s victory against authoritarianism in the 1980s.