IPB Statements

30 October, 2011

The IPB Council meeting in Potsdam on 29-30 Oct. 2011, calls on the UN Secretary General to use all the non-violent tools of the UN to protect civilians in Syria, and in other places where people are striving for democracy and decent human conditions.  IPB appeals to him to involve international expertise in peace-building and peaceful handling of conflicts, as well as the regional bodies, notably the Arab League and the Organisation of the Islamic Conference, in facilitating negotiations between the Syrian Government and those protesting against undemocratic and violent behaviour. IPB urges Ban Ki-moon to exert his influence on member states in order to avoid that the Security Council adopts a militaristic interpretation of the Responsibility to Protect doctrine, as we saw in Libya.

26 July, 2011

Observers all over the world were deeply moved to see the dignified grief expressed by the Norwegian people yesterday in the wake of Friday’s atrocities. The huge, spontaneous demonstrations in Oslo and in many other communities – with flowers held aloft – spoke volumes about the country’s firm commitment to solidarity and democracy. Continue reading “Norway: IPB offers condolences to Norway and urges greater commitment to peace work”

21 March, 2011

A new historical era opened three months ago with the popular uprisings in Tunisia and then Egypt, the first of the ‘Arab spring’ season. These rebellions brought hope to millions and youthful energy to societies suffering decades of repression, injustice, inequality, especially gender inequality, and increasing economic hardship. The Libyan revolt was inspired by these largely nonviolent victories, but, as the world has witnessed with dismay, has rapidly become militarized and is now embroiled in a full-scale civil war. Continue reading “Libya: IPB condemns military strikes and urges political negociations to protect the civilian popula”