PRIORITIZE A JUST AND PEACEFUL RESOLUTION OF THE WAR: Statement from Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines
The Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines (PhilCBL) joins the U.S. Cluster Munition Coalition (USCMC) in strongly condemning the decision to transfer U.S. cluster munitions to Ukraine. This action not only exacerbates the armed conflict and humanitarian crisis but also fails to address the underlying causes of the conflict, undermining efforts to achieve a just, lasting and peaceful resolution.
demonstrate enlightened strategic leadership by promoting dialogue, diplomacy, and peacebuilding initiatives to address the fundamental causes of the conflict in Ukraine. We urge the U.S. to reconsider its decision to transmit cluster munitions and instead prioritize initiatives contributing to conflict settlement, socioeconomic development, and human rights protection.
Together, we must recognize that addressing the root causes of conflicts is necessary for attaining lasting peace. By emphasizing dialogue, reconciliation, and socioeconomic equity, we can create a future in which horrific weapons such as cluster munitions are no longer “needed,” as President Biden says for the Ukrainian “counter-offensive.” At the same time, we likewise call on Russia to discontinue its use of cluster munitions, even as this wrong does not justify another wrong by the U.S. and Ukraine.
This decision to transfer cluster munitions disregards the urgency of addressing the fundamental causes of the conflict in Ukraine, for which we express grave concern. To achieve enduring peace, it is essential to engage in meaningful dialogue, promote reconciliation, and invest in initiatives for sustainable peace. The emphasis should be on finding comprehensive solutions that address the grievances of all parties and foster a just and inclusive society.
PhilCBL calls on the United States to demonstrate enlightened strategic leadership by promoting dialogue, diplomacy, and peacebuilding initiatives to address the fundamental causes of the conflict in Ukraine. We urge the U.S. to reconsider its decision to transmit cluster munitions and instead prioritize initiatives contributing to conflict settlement, socioeconomic development, and human rights protection.
Fred Lubang, PhilCBL