Solidarity statement to support all people impacted by war

The recent development in the Ukraine-Russia conflict and the protracted conflict and humanitarian tragedy happening worldwide has brought us to release a statement on our position on war and armed conflict. We condemn all the bloodshed and bombardments that cause humanitarian crises and catastrophes right now before our eyes in Yemen, the Gaza Strip, Ukraine, Somalia, Syria, and anywhere in the world, no matter who the aggressor is.

For us, there are no “worthy” and “unworthy” victims, “good” and “bad” aggressors and empires based on interests of dominant, wealthy groups with political and economic power - shaping and controlling what topics are covered, which stories are given particular emphasis, and how issues are framed. That is the reason why this is not another one-sided political “Statement on Ukraine” swiftly released by many transnational organizations in the world within days after the Russian military state had invaded Ukraine. This is a principled anti-war, anti-imperialist and anti-militarist statement that applies a universalist human rights perspective that calls for the dismantling of militaries and the carceral state and criticizes positioning peace within the context of militarization, weaponization, and imperialism. This is not peace.

As activists, disruptors, researchers, and community practitioners, we have witnessed and responded to various conflicts and tragedies. We recognize the importance of taking a stand against oppression and violence and engaging in social and political action. We continuously raise our concern on the safety of all individuals and communities- children, young people, and women who are left vulnerable to all forms of abuse and violence and recognize that members of the LGBTQ communities experience higher rates of violence during times of conflict and displacement. It is also imperative to highlight that displaced people from the Global South experience inhumane treatment and further trauma and violence by countries that supposedly provide safety.

We ask everyone to join us in advocating for peace and resolution to prevent further bloodshed, destruction, human rights abuse, large-scale displacements, and trauma. We have come to recognize our role as part of civil society’s movement for change- protesting, advocating, resisting, and building action in protecting and enriching the population’s lives. We know that nations can come to peace when people in power learn to listen, rebuild trust and strengthen cooperation and relationships.

As millions of individuals are displaced due to conflict and imperialism, we urge the international community to ensure that human rights are protected, and needs are met. International humanitarian law is upheld at all times, and humanitarian aid is provided continuously and without delays. We also call for nuclear disarmament and the redirection of funds on developing weapons and military arsenal to sustainable resources meeting basic human needs - food and nutrition, housing, clothing, heating, transport, health care, education and information of all people on our finite Mother Earth.

As part of the social work profession and as citizens of global change, we will continuously work with our partners and networks to advocate and respond in building a more peaceful and sustainable world for the children of today and future generations. Thus, we encourage everyone to continue standing against injustices by working together towards action and critical dissent.

Disclaimer: This statement reflects only the views of the authoring researchers and does not necessarily reflect or represent the opinion and position of the ASTRA Project, educational institutions, and partner organizations involved. The European Commission and the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Network is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information it contains.

Authors: Miroslav Budimir, Rebecca Conway, Atefeh Safarabadi Farahani, Svenja Fischbach, Mattia Mansueto, Athina Moroglou, Yannis Perifanos, Shailendra Rai, Amy Shackelford, Michael Emru Tadesse, Jeany Rose Teguihanon.