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.
Continue reading “IPB Statement on Democratic Republic of Congo”IPB Statements
Statement on the 65th Anniversary of the First French Nuclear
Joint Statement on the 65th Anniversary of the First French Nuclear Test in the Algerian Sahara – February 13, 1960
We, the undersigned organizations, representing affected communities, indigenous peoples, advocates for nuclear disarmament, environmental protection, human rights, and peace, gather today to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the first French nuclear test conducted in the Algerian Sahara on February 13, 1960.
Continue reading “Statement on the 65th Anniversary of the First French Nuclear”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.
Continue reading “IPB Condemns the Violent Attack on Nouveaux Droits de l’Homme: Call for Accountability and Justice in Cameroon”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.
Continue reading “Legislative Deadlock and Democratic Challenges in Liberia’s House of Representatives: October 2024 to Present “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.
Continue reading “Statement from the International Peace Bureau (IPB) on the Current Situation in Syria and Aspirations for Its Future”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.
Continue reading “A Call for Solutions to Safeguard Democracy in South Korea”Nuclear Weapons are Antithetical to Human Rights: Honoring Nihon Hidankyo on International Human Rights Day
10 December 2024
At a time of deep crisis in global cooperation and governance, the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to Nihon Hidankyo, the organization representing survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki (Hibakusha), is an essential reminder of what is at stake in the world today – and the strength and commitment of activists to ensure a peaceful future that respects the human rights of all.
Continue reading “Nuclear Weapons are Antithetical to Human Rights: Honoring Nihon Hidankyo on International Human Rights Day”Sign the Appeal: The World Wants Peace, Not Nuclear War!
You can sign the call and find the original call in Spanish here.
On this December 10th, marking the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we, the individuals and organizations signing this statement, wish to express the following:
- Our Deep Concern
We are gravely concerned about the danger and possibility of a nuclear war, a threat that has escalated further following the recent decision by U.S. President Joe Biden to authorize Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russia. - Call for a Ceasefire
As we have stated before, we urge an immediate ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia, where the United States and NATO countries are actively involved. We call on all parties, including the U.S. and NATO, to engage in peace negotiations aimed at definitively ending hostilities and establishing agreements that affirm the right of all countries to peace and collective security, distancing us from the threat of nuclear war. - Global Implications of Nuclear War
The potential for nuclear war would not only affect Ukraine or Russia but could also devastate all of Europe and the United States. Moreover, it would have catastrophic global consequences, including “nuclear winter,” radioactive contamination, and severe impacts on the environment and public health. - Escalation Risks
The risk of nuclear war is real as hostilities between the U.S., NATO, and Russia escalate. This has prompted governments in Norway, Sweden, and Finland to distribute brochures to their citizens, urging them to prepare for the worst—the possibility of a direct NATO-Russia conflict. - The Doomsday Clock Warning
In 2024, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists stated, “Today, we have set the Doomsday Clock to 90 seconds to midnight because humanity continues to face an unprecedented level of danger. Our decision should not be interpreted as a sign that international security has improved. On the contrary, leaders and citizens worldwide should take this as a grave warning and respond urgently, as if this were the most dangerous moment in modern history—because it very well could be.” The Doomsday Clock is a symbolic measure of how close humanity is to total annihilation. - Nuclear Arms Race
Over the past decade, we have witnessed a significant increase in nuclear weapons development and maintenance budgets, particularly by the United States, which has also withdrawn from key agreements like the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty, the Open Skies Treaty, the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, and the Iran nuclear deal—all crucial pillars of nuclear arms control. These hostilities have also led countries like Russia, China, and North Korea to expand or upgrade their nuclear arsenals. - A Call to Action
The danger is real, and we are all at risk. We, the signatories of this statement, demand that world leaders, the United Nations, and governments—particularly the United States—make sincere efforts to end the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East through peaceful negotiations. We also urge them to advance a disarmament agenda and work toward the prompt elimination of nuclear weapons.
Finally, in this perilous world, we commend the example set by the Japanese organization Nihon Hidankyo, survivors of the atomic bomb, which was awarded the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize for its efforts to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons.
Click here to sign!
Empowering Youth for Global Peace: Celebrating World Children’s Day
“Empowering Youth for Global Peace: Celebrating World Children’s Day”
On November 20, World Children’s Day serves as a global call to action, emphasizing the vital role of children and youth in peacebuilding efforts. This day reminds us of the importance of safeguarding children’s rights and involving them in creating a harmonious future. By supporting and engaging young people, we lay the groundwork for a world where peace and understanding prevail.
Every year on November 20, the world celebrates World Children’s Day, a moment to honor and advocate for the rights and well-being of children and youth everywhere. It’s a day to reflect on their pivotal role in building a peaceful, sustainable future and renew our commitment to creating an environment where every child can grow free from war and conflict.
Children’s Right to Peace: A Fundamental Human Right
Children and youth have the undeniable right to live in peace and security. This is enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), adopted in 1989. The UNCRC, the most widely ratified human rights treaty in history, underscores children’s right to protection from violence, exploitation, and war (Article 38). It also highlights their right to survival and development (Article 6) and the importance of providing opportunities for children to voice their opinions (Article 12).
However, despite these commitments, millions of children around the world continue to suffer the devastating consequences of conflicts and wars. According to UNICEF, over 420 million children—nearly one in five—live in conflict zones today. These children face threats to their lives, education, health, and mental well-being. They are robbed of their childhoods, their voices silenced in the chaos of violence.
Supporting Children and Youth is Essential
This World Children’s Day, let us reaffirm that peace is not just a goal but a fundamental right for every child. Providing a safe and nurturing environment is critical, not only for their well-being but also for the future of our global society. Supporting children to live in peace means:
- Ensuring access to quality education, which fosters understanding, tolerance, and critical thinking.
- Protecting children from recruitment into armed forces or exploitation.
- Offering psychosocial support to heal the trauma caused by wars and conflicts.
- Promoting equal opportunities for every child, regardless of their background or circumstances.
International conventions like the Geneva Conventions and Optional Protocols to the UNCRC on the involvement of children in armed conflict reinforce the obligation of states to protect children from the direct impacts of war and ensure their rights are upheld.
Children and Youth in Peacebuilding
Children and youth are not only victims of conflict—they are also powerful agents of change. When given the opportunity, they can play a crucial role in fostering peace and reconciliation. Engaging them in peace work is an investment in building a more stable and harmonious world.
Programs that empower children to participate in decision-making processes, peace dialogues, and community-building initiatives have shown remarkable success in fostering resilience and understanding.
As the future generation, children and youth will inherit the responsibility of establishing the foundations of peace. It is vital to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and platforms they need to become active peacebuilders in their communities and beyond.
A Global Call to Champion Children’s Rights
On this World Children’s Day, the International Peace Bureau calls upon governments, organizations, and institutions worldwide to take decisive action:
- Prioritize children’s rights in all policies and programs, ensuring their protection and empowerment.
- Integrate children and youth into peacebuilding efforts, providing platforms for their voices to be heard and respected.
- Promote the culture of peace, addressing the root causes of conflict and fostering understanding and cooperation across divides.
- Support global and local initiatives aimed at providing education, healthcare, and security to children in conflict zones.
Let us use this day as a time to think deeply about the millions of children around the world who are living through endless cycles of violence. Let us imagine their potential, their dreams, and their capacity to create a brighter future—if only we give them the chance.
Together for a Peaceful Future
World Children’s Day is more than a celebration; it is a call to action. A call to recognize that the well-being of children is linked to the well-being of our world. By championing their rights and involving them in the peace process, we are not only fulfilling our obligations under international laws and conventions—we are also laying the groundwork for a peaceful, equitable future for all.
Together, we can empower the next generation to lead the way toward a brighter, more peaceful tomorrow.