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IFOR meets with Peace Comunity reps in Geneva / IFOR rencontre les représentants de la Communauté de Paix à Genève / IFOR recibe a los representantes de la Comunidad de la Paz en Ginebra

#nonviolence #HumanRights #PeaceCommunity

International Fellowship of Reconciliation - IFOR had the privilege to welcome to its office in Geneva on Monday October 10th -at the Ecumenical Center- two representatives of the Comunidad de Paz San José de Apartadó.

The Peace Community is a great 25 yrs outstanding practice of nonviolent resistance in a highly violent context.

Accompanied by the former director of Red Internacional de Derechos Humanos, IFOR's guests presented the ongoing concerning situation that the Peace Community faces on a daily basis in #Colombia.

The meeting has been an opportunity for further planning on solidarity actions in continuity with IFOR supporting initiatives.

IFOR has also shared this visiting opportunity with other partner organizations in Geneva such as Associazione Comunità Papa Giovanni XXIII.

IFOR's Main Representative, Zaira Zafarana, with the visiting guests of the CdP, Sayda Arteaga Guerra and Roviro Lopez Rivera and RIDHI Ramon Munoz in IFOR office.

Ecumenical Center in Geneva, headquarter of World Council of Churches, where the IFOR office is located in Geneva

IFOR's guests together with the Main representative of Associazione Comunità Papa Giovanni XXIII at the UN.


#non-violence #droits de l'homme #communauté de paix
Le Mouvement International de la Réconciliation - MIR a eu le privilège d'accueillir dans ses bureaux à Genève le lundi 10 octobre - au Centre Oecuménique - deux représentants de la Comunidad de Paz San José de Apartadó.
Accompagnés de l'ancien directeur de Red Internacional de Derechos Humanos, les invités d'IFOR ont présenté la situation préoccupante à laquelle la Communauté de Paix doit faire face quotidiennement en Colombie.
La réunion a été l'occasion de planifier des actions de solidarité dans la continuité des initiatives soutenues par IFOR.
L'IFOR a également partagé cette opportunité de visite avec d'autres organisations partenaires à Genève, comme l'Associazione Comunità Papa Giovanni XXIII.

Zaira Zafarana, représentante principale d'IFOR, avec les invités du CdP, Sayda Arteaga Guerra et Roviro Lopez Rivera et RIDHI Ramon Munoz dans les bureaux d'IFOR.

Centre oecuménique de Genève, siège du Conseil oecuménique des Eglises, où se trouve le bureau d'IFOR à Genève.

Les invités d'IFOR avec le représentant principal de l'Associazione Comunità Papa Giovanni XXIII à l'ONU.


#noviolencia #DerechosHumanos #ComunidadDePaz
International Fellowship of Reconciliation - IFOR tuvo el privilegio de recibir en su oficina de Ginebra el lunes 10 de octubre -en el Centro Ecuménico- a dos representantes de la Comunidad de Paz San José de Apartadó.
La Comunidad de Paz es una gran práctica de 25 años de resistencia no violenta en un contexto altamente violento.
Acompañados por el ex director de la Red Internacional de Derechos Humanos, los invitados de IFOR expusieron la preocupante situación que la Comunidad de Paz enfrenta cada día en #Colombia.
El encuentro ha sido una oportunidad para seguir planificando acciones de solidaridad en continuidad con las iniciativas de apoyo de IFOR.
IFOR también ha compartido esta oportunidad de visita con otras organizaciones asociadas en Ginebra como la Associazione Comunità Papa Giovanni XXIII.

La Representante Principal de IFOR, Zaira Zafarana, con los invitados de la CdP, Sayda Arteaga Guerra y Roviro Lopez Rivera y RIDHI Ramon Munoz en la oficina de IFOR.

Centro Ecuménico de Ginebra, sede del Consejo Mundial de Iglesias, donde se encuentra la oficina de IFOR en Ginebra

Los invitados de IFOR junto con el representante principal de la Associazione Comunità Papa Giovanni XXIII en la ONU.

Comment

IFOR speaks at the UN on conscientious objection violations and peacebuilding efforts in Ukraine

Comment

IFOR speaks at the UN on conscientious objection violations and peacebuilding efforts in Ukraine

During the 51st session of the UN Human Rights Council, the Director of Division of the OHCHR gave an oral update on the current situation in Ukraine during the interactive dialogue under item 10.

International Fellowship of Reconciliation participated in the dialogue in the plenary and addressed the violation of the right to conscientious objection to military service in Ukraine, freedom of movement and the alarming forced conscription in the occupied territory and the recent partial mobilization announced in the Russian federation.

IFOR Main representative to the UN, Zaira Zafarana, delivering the statement during the 51st session of the UN HUman Rights Council.

In its statement, IFOR has also expressed its solidarity to the victims and its support to all war resisters -calling for asylum for conscientious objectors who refuse to engage in the war at their personal risk and those who pursue nonviolent means to peace-building. The speech mentioned civil society peace initiatives to support local nonviolent action such as the Stop The War Now launched by Associazione Papa Giovanni XXIII together with many other Italian NGOs, including MIR Italy - Italian branch of IFOR.


Human Rights Council, 51st Session 

4th October 2022 

ID Item 4: Oral update of the High Commissioner on Ukraine 

Oral statement delivered by the International Fellowship of Reconciliation. 

Mr. President,  

International Fellowship of Reconciliation thanks the Office of the High Commissioner for the oral update. We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine who are suffering for the ongoing war which is causing tragedies and violations and an inhumane nuclear threat. 

We stand in solidarity with those who courageously refuse to kill and call on the international community to ensure full legal guarantees of their human right to conscientious objection and to provide them protection and asylum1. The right to conscientious objection to military service should be absolutely protected and cannot be restricted, as highlighted in the last OHCHR quadrennial thematic report [presented at the last session].

We are alarmed by the current suspension of the right to conscientious objection in Ukraine, the consequent detention sentences and the travel ban for all men aged 18-60. We have been informed of repression of students protests against the prohibition to study abroad. 

IFOR is also deeply concerned by the forced mobilization in Ukrainian occupied territories and by the new mobilization measures issued by the Russian Federation, which include imprisonment for those who refuse to enlist.  

IFOR gives voice to all those who are non-violently resisting war and acknowledge the efforts of the many who support reconciliation and peace building efforts. For instance, Stop The War Now has just concluded its 4th peace caravan to Ukraine, bringing in humanitarian aid and also support to ongoing local civil society peace initiatives. 

UN Member States should urgently pursue the way to peace negotiations and facilitate such a path, which is within the United Nations purposes. 

Thank you. 


Click here to watch IFOR main representative to deliver the statement at the UN Human Rights Council.

Click here to read the full statement.

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International peace initiative to support nonviolent action in Ukraine

#STOPTHEWARNOW is a network of over 175 Italian organizations committed to peace building and international solidarity through non-violent peace and humanitarian actions. The network was created to launch a message of solidarity and opposition to the conflict in Ukraine and to build together an alternative to the madness of war. It is coordinated by a steering committee made up of the Pope John XXIII Community, Pro Civitate Christiana and the national networks Focsiv, Aoi, the Italian Peace and Disarmament Network, Libera against mafias, representing all the member associations. At the moment #STOPTHEWARNOW is in Ukraine with two permanent presences, one in Lviv and one in Odessa.
Between 1 and 3 April #STOPTHEWARNOW organized the 1st Peace Caravan, which set off from Italy with representatives of non-violent and pacifist civil society, to witness, through its presence in Lviv, Ukraine, the will to build a dialogue of peace through non-violent actions.
The 4th Peace Caravan was aimed to:
- Laying the foundations for partnership agreements between Italian members of the campaign #StopTheWarNow and Ukrainian civil society organizations (including trade unions) committed to Peace building, conscientious objection and non-violent resistance; possible youth exchanges with universities and Youth Centers;
- Relaunching the campaign of solidarity with conscientious objectors under investigation/protest by the General Prosecutor's Office in Ukraine, such as the journalist Ruslan Kotsaba, accused of high treason for spreading calls to boycott the war.

Learn more about Stop the war now.

-section under update-

Comment

IFOR welcomes you to its "INTRODUCTION TO THE UN" program September 19th -23th 2022

Comment

IFOR welcomes you to its "INTRODUCTION TO THE UN" program September 19th -23th 2022

IFOR's 3rd edition of its "Introduction to the UN" program took place on September 19-23 2022.

This year's program was titled "Strengthening civil society engagement within the UN system" and was funded by Otto per Mille of the Waldensian Church of Italy.

Nine participants from Benin, Colombia, Japan, Mongolia, Nepal, Nigeria, Tibet and USA the opportunity to learn more about the UN system and the precise work IFOR does with particular regard to conscientious objection to military service and other issues such as human rights education, environmental rights, disarmament, decolonization and to meet with partner organizations and human rights defenders. 

Participants attended the 51st session of the UN Human Rights Council, informal negotiations, side events and thematic workshops on Western Sahara, Tibet . . . and found out more about UN procedures and civil society space. 

During the week, IFOR’s guests had the chance to visit the Geneva UN headquarters and attend the special event of the Geneva Peace Talks on September 21st where they had the opportunity to listen to human rights defenders and activists from around the globe.


READ ABOUT OUR PARTICIPANTS' FEEDBACK:

“The programme enriched my knowledge and experience hugely. We were introduced to many different aspects of the UN and civil society representations. The programme exceeded my expectations and we look forward to working with IFOR and the relevant diplomats at the UN.” -Uuganaa 

“I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to attend the seminar and to be part of an organization advocating for the right to refuse to kill, and the right of conscientious objection to war. We must build a global movement that is committed to collective liberation.” -Chrissy

“Though I have been to Gener and participated several timers in UN organized programs, I never had the opportunity to see how, debates, lobying and side events are organized, I feel priveledged thiis year through IFOR and the able leadership of Zaira Zafarana who guided us through ther process, It is a worthwhile experience, and I look forward to more of such. Thank you for this opportunity.” -Domino

“IFOR can give us exposure and capacity enhance and pick the Hunan rights issues to the UN for better chnage of Community” -Sirjana

“It was wonderful programme. Got knowledge how work with UN. IFOR should continue this efforts.” -Ruhi

“It is a great opportunity to strengthen international advocacy and the socialization capacities of different organizations that work to promote human rights in the world. It allows to have a close and direct work towards the United Nations System, from the perspective of Civil Society organizations. Personally, it was an opportunity that I am grateful for, and I can affirm that it changed my life, it allowed me to learn about different ways of fighting for human rights, to learn about new realities, and to always think that despite the great distances and cultural differences, the work for the rights of people can be understood as a universal language.” -Laura

“What set this program apart from others was great its focus on practical lessons in that we were able to learn firsthand about the workings of the Human Rights Council session and explore opportunities for advocacy on issues of common concern.” -Tsering




Comment

IFOR speaks at the UN on forced cultural assimilation of Tibetans

Comment

IFOR speaks at the UN on forced cultural assimilation of Tibetans

Tenzing Dawa, TCHRD senior programme officer, delivering the statement on behalf of IFOR.

On September 27th the International Fellowship of Reconciliation took the floor at the UN Human Rights Council during the General debate on the human rights situations that require the Council’s attention.

IFOR addressed the dramatic situation in the Tibetan region highlighting the ongoing violation of cultural rights, freedom of expression, conscience, thought and religion, for instance.


Human Rights Council, 51st Session 

27th September 2022 

GD Item 4: Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention 

Oral statement delivered by the International Fellowship of Reconciliation. 

Madam vice-president,  

The International Fellowship of Reconciliation expresses serious concerns regarding the situation of violation of cultural rights with reference to the intensification of forced cultural assimilation of Tibetans inside Tibet by the Chinese government.  

In recent years, repressive legal and policy measures were introduced to impose Chinese medium education starting from the preschool level. Non-governmental initiatives offering lessons in Tibetan language and culture have been suppressed.  

Sinicization's policies have also resulted in the systematic persecution of Tibetan intellectuals, educators, and cultural leaders; some of those have been victims of incommunicado detention and sentenced in secret without access to do legal process.  

Throughout pandemic lockdowns, the human rights situation in Tibet continues to deteriorate. Unprecedented controls on online communication is resulting in Tibet as an informational black hole.  

Restrictions on the right to freedom of thought, religion and expression continue to escalate. We have registered cases of arbitrary detention and enforced disappearance of Tibetans for merely engaging in peaceful protests.  

We call on this Council and the High Commissioner to address the human rights situation of Tibetans and to work together with China to ensure the protection of their cultural rights: their right to determine their own educational and cultural affairs as provided in the Chinese Constitution as well as the Regional National Autonomy Law and to immediately halt the closure of Tibetan language schools and imposition of Chinese medium education.  

We thank you.



IFOR has submitted, in collaboration with its affiliate Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD), a written thematic statement to the 51st session of the UN Human Rights Council. This document, titled “Human Rights in Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), China and Other Tibetan Populated Areas in China ", has been received by the Secretary-General and has been circulated in accordance with Economic and Social Council resolution 1996/31. It is registered officially on the UN website as A/HRC/51/NGO/151 and is available here.

Learn more about TCHRD here and more about their recent activity at the UN, here.

Comment

IFOR calls on the UN to stop the war in Ukraine and restates that the right to conscientious objection cannot be restricted nor suspended.

Comment

IFOR calls on the UN to stop the war in Ukraine and restates that the right to conscientious objection cannot be restricted nor suspended.

Members of the Commission of Inquiry. President E. Mose, Ms. P. De Greiff and Madam j. Dzumhur.

On the occasion of the 51st session of the UN Human Rights Council, as previously decided by the Members States (A/HRC/RES/49/1 and A/HRC/RES/S-34/1) the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the situation of human rights in Ukraine stemming from the Russian aggression presented its oral update in the plenary.

After the presentation and the following statements by Member States and National Human Rights Institutions, NGOs had the opportunity to take the floor.

IFOR, thus, delivered an oral statement calling on the UN Member States to act to stop the war and save lives and addressed the issue of the violation of the right to conscientious objection to military service, restating its support to all those who refuse to kill.

IFOR recalled as well international standards on the non-derogability of the right to conscientious objection and expressed its concern for the current suspension of this right in Ukraine and its violation in the occupied territories.


Human Rights Council, 51st Session 

23rd September 2022 

Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine Oral statement delivered by the International Fellowship of Reconciliation. 

Mr. President,  

War should be abolished because it is never a conflict resolution, neither in Ukraine nor in other countries. On the contrary, it brings devastating and dramatic consequences on the people and on the land. 

Excellencies, colleagues, we are here today addressing violations directly connected to the ongoing war. 

The victims are waiting for action. [As we head yesterday during the ID with the SR on Myanmar, concerning another violent conflict, actions speak louder than words.] 

In resolution (A/HRC/S-34/L.1) the Human Rights Council reiterated its demand for an immediate end of military hostilities against Ukraine, and for all parties to the conflict to respect the fundamental principles and rules of international humanitarian law 

We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and mourn with them. We also stand in solidarity with those opposing to war and refusing to kill. 

We have been notified that the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense replied to the Ukrainian Pacifist Movement that "Due to martial law, since 24.02.2022 the temporary military service in Ukraine is no longer implemented. Therefore, the implementation of alternative service is not applicable."

The UN Human Rights Committee has clearly stated that the right to conscientious objection cannot be restricted for reasons of national security.

IFOR is also concerned by the forced mobilization of conscripts in Ukrainian territory controlled by Russian  affiliated armed groups. 

Freedom of thought, conscience and religion is a non-derogable right and, as is freedom of expression, it continues to apply in situations of armed conflict. The right to conscientious objection to military service should be absolutely protected and cannot be restricted, as highlighted by the quadrennial analytical thematic report by OHCHR presented at the 50th session. 

Thank you. 


Click here to watch IFOR main representative to deliver the statement at the UN Human Rights Council.

Click here to read the full statement.

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Insights concerning the UN Human Rights Council on the ongoing war in Ukraine


- Resolution adopted by the Human Rights Council on 4 March 2022.

During the 49th session of the UN Human Rights Council, the Council "Decides to urgently establish an independent international commission of inquiry, comprising three human rights experts, to be appointed by the President of the Human Rights Council for an initial duration of one year, complementing, consolidating and building upon the work of the human rights monitoring mission in Ukraine, in close coordination with the human rights monitoring mission in Ukraine and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, with the following mandate: (a) To investigate all alleged violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law, and related crimes in the context of the aggression against Ukraine by the Russian Federation, and to establish the facts, circumstances and root causes of any such violations and abuses; (b) To collect, consolidate and analyse evidence of such violations and abuses, including their gender dimension, and to systematically record and preserve all information, documentation and evidence, including interviews, witness testimony and forensic material, consistent with international law standards, in view of any future legal proceedings; (c) To document and verify relevant information and evidence, including through field engagement, and to cooperate with judicial and other entities, as appropriate; A/HRC/RES/49/1 4 (d) To identify, where possible, those individuals and entities responsible for violations or abuses of human rights or violations of international humanitarian law, or other related crimes, in Ukraine, with a view to ensuring that those responsible are held accountable; (e) To make recommendations, in particular on accountability measures, all with a view to ending impunity and ensuring accountability, including, as appropriate, individual criminal responsibility, and access to justice for victims; (f) To provide the Human Rights Council, at its fifty-first session, with an oral update, to be followed by an interactive dialogue, and a comprehensive written report at its fifty-second session, to be followed by an interactive dialogue, and to submit a report to the General Assembly at its seventy-seventh session"

Learn more about Resolution A/HRC/RES/49/1 here.


- Resolution adopted by the Human Rights Council on 12 May 2022

During the Special UN Human Rights Council session held in May 2022 the Council adopted a resolution which says that the UN HRC " Reiterates its demand for the immediate cessation of military hostilities against Ukraine and for all parties to the conflict to respect the fundamental principles and rules of international humanitarian law, including to refrain from any attacks against civilians and civilian objects, and to refrain from any human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine; 2. Stresses the need to refrain from any State-sponsored disinformation, propaganda for war or advocacy of national, racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence, relating to the aggression against Ukraine; 3. Urges the Russian Federation to provide representatives and staff of international human rights and humanitarian institutions, including United Nations specialized agencies, with unhindered, timely, immediate, unrestricted and safe access to A/HRC/RES/S-34/1 3 persons who have been transferred from conflict-affected areas of Ukraine and are held on the territory of the Russian Federation or areas controlled or occupied by the Russian Federation, and to share with relevant parties a comprehensive list of such transferred persons and their whereabouts; 4. Requests the independent international commission of inquiry on Ukraine to conduct an inquiry, consistent with its mandate and international standards, and in coordination with other national and international mechanisms, to address the events in the areas of the Kyiv, Chernihiv, Kharkiv and Sumy regions in late February and in March 2022, including their gender dimension, with a view to holding those responsible to account, and also requests the commission to brief the Human Rights Council on the progress of that inquiry as part of the oral update to the Council at its fifty-first session, and to include its findings after the completion of the inquiry in its report to the Council at its fifty-second session; 5. Requests the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to present an oral update on the grave human rights and humanitarian situation in Mariupol, including an assessment of the nature and causes of violations or abuses of human rights and of violations of international humanitarian law committed there, to the Human Rights Council at its fiftieth session under item 2, to be followed by an interactive dialogue; 6. Encourages relevant thematic special procedure mandate holders, within their respective mandates, to continue to pay particular attention to the situation of human rights in Ukraine stemming from the Russian aggression, and urges all relevant parties to cooperate with those mandate holders; 7. Decides to remain seized of the matter."

Learn more about Resolution A/HRC/RES/S-34/1 here.

Comment

IFOR addresses the right to conscientious objection to military service at the 51st UN Human Rights Council

Comment

IFOR addresses the right to conscientious objection to military service at the 51st UN Human Rights Council

On September 21st, International Peace Day, IFOR took the floor in the plenary of the 51st session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva delivering a statement on the right to conscientious objection to military service.

IFOR acknowledged the quadrennial thematic report presented by the Office of the High Commissioner during the last session of the Council and highlighted concerning issues and including the issue of provisions at wartime not in line with international standards.

IFOR called on the Council to strongly commit and ensure the full implementation of the right to conscientious objection to military service.

As per past practice of the Council, following the presentation of the OHCHR thematic report -which took place during the 50th session-, a resolution on the right to conscientious objection to military service is expected to be adopted during this session of the Council. Ongoing informal negotiations are led by Costa Rica, Croatia and Poland.


Human Rights Council, 51st Session

21 st September 2022

GD Item 3: Promotion and protection of all human rights, civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights Oral statement delivered by the International Fellowship of Reconciliation.

Madam Vice President,

IFOR welcomes the report of the OHCHR on the right to conscientious objection to military service which has been presented to this Council during the last session. This is of benefit to the entire international community and all concerned individuals around the world.

The report highlighted some positive progress as the introduction of legal provisions for alternative service in the Republic of Korea [and consequent reduction of imprisoned local objectors] . It also reported the pivotal UN Human Rights Committee Views concerning the Petromelidis v. Greece case which made outstanding jurisprudence on this right.

There are still concerning issues such as the punitive alternative service which continues to affect many conscientious objectors in several countries.

Unfortunately, there are still some States which do not recognize this human right. Too many objectors continue to be imprisoned or forced to flee their country looking for protection.

As highlighted by the previous SR in His report presented in the 50th session, we are deeply alarmed by the violation of this right in situations of armed conflicts and kindly invite the new Special Rapporteur to continue to monitor such violation. In some countries there are special provisions concerning this right at time of armed conflict [which differs from the regular provisions and] do not comply with international standards; other countries deny this right in case of mobilization.

Freedom of thought, conscience and religion is a non-derogable right and it continues to apply regardless of a situation of armed conflict.

The work of this Council is essential to ensure the full enjoyment of the human right of conscientious objection to military service which is inherent to the right to freedom of thought conscience ad religion.

IFOR calls upon the Member States to strongly commit to the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion and collaborate to ensure the full implementation of the right to conscientious objection to military service in all countries, [in compliance with the international standards].

Thank you


Comment

IFOR welcomes you to its "INTRODUCTION TO THE UN" program September 19th -23rd 2022

Comment

IFOR welcomes you to its "INTRODUCTION TO THE UN" program September 19th -23rd 2022

The International Fellowship of Reconciliation (IFOR) is glad to invite you to participate in the 3rd edition of the special program aimed to provide an opportunity to come and see the work of IFOR at the United Nations in Geneva and experience first-hand engagement within the UN system.

This year's program is titled “Strengthening civil society engagement within UN system” and is funded by the Otto per Mille of the Waldensian Church of Italy.

The aim is to provide a learning opportunity to civil society representatives, with particular focus to human rights defenders from the Global South, and from minority and vulnerable groups, to take action as human rights advocates within the UN system.

The program will last one week, from Monday September 19th to Friday 23rd 2022.

It will run during the 51st session of the UN Human Rights Council.

Participants will also learn about IFOR work on the right to conscientious objection to military service and about the draft resolution negotiation expected to take place at the UN Human Rights Council on this topic.

Participants will have the opportunity to address other Human Rights topics and thus explore how civil society can fully engage at the UN and network.

We contemplate a group of about ten people, which can move about together and is also small enough to share reflections communally between formal meetings.

Have a look at the first edition here and at the second edition here.

Due to the current situation concerning covid-19, the running of the program could be subject to changes accordingly to the ongoing pandemic.

APPLICANTS

We look for participants who are linked to a civil society organization and are willing to engage in human rights.

Priority will be given to those from the Global South, and from minority and vulnerable groups.

Participants should be:

-        at least 18 years old

-        fluent in spoken English

-        available for the entire week period

-        directly involved in the current work of a civil society organization

-        inclined to teamwork

-        motivated with regards to the human rights and international affairs agenda

-        ready to follow up within their own organization

PROGRAMME OF THE WEEK

The detailed program will be sent to the participants prior to the start of the program.

Program will start in Geneva on Monday 19th at 3 pm.

During the week the participants will attend working sessions of the Human Rights Council -which include plenary meetings, negotiations of resolutions, side events-, assist in the drafting and delivering of oral statements, participate in informal meetings with partner NGOs, explore advocacy initiatives.

The program will conclude on Friday 23rd at noon.

Every day participants will have the possibility to meet together to exchange on the experience and deepen topics and procedures of interest with IFOR UN representatives; in addition, there will be a tutoring opportunity to better follow the Human Rights Council working sessions, the general debates and interactive dialogues planned in the Program of Work of the UN.

ACCOMMODATION AND TRAVEL

IFOR has pre-arranged a single room accommodation with full board near the Palais des Nations, in Geneva. These costs (accommodation + meals) will be covered by IFOR through the Otto per Mille fund of the Waldensian Church. All participants will receive a free pass for local public transportation for the entire period.

Other costs (round trip travel to Geneva and personal leisure) shall be met by the participants and/or their organizations.

Participants will need to take care of possible Visa requirements as well.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, interested people need to fill in the online form here.  

Deadline for application is August 30th 2022, at 1pm CEST. The confirmation of the application will be notified to the candidates within the following 48 hours.

If necessary, we will give preference to:

a) those who are prepared to commit for the entire week

b) persons with a direct connection with IFOR

c) members of vulnerable or minority groups

For further information you are welcome to contact the coordinator of the program at zaira.zafarana@ifor.org

NOTE: Given the current situation of the pandemic the program will run accordingly to the actual situation and safety measures in place. Applicants are invited to check all requirements given by the Swiss Federal Office for people traveling from other countries.

Looking forward to having you in Geneva!


You can download the call here.

You are welcome to share on social media here.

READ ABOUT OUR PARTICIPANTS' FEEDBACK:

"It was an intensive and interesting time with the great opportunity to get to know other committed young people and human rights defenders." - Sophia

"Introduction to the UN" was one of the eye-opening events I have ever participated in. The agenda was perfectly scheduled, the participants fit well together, all other moments organized so well that we could get most of it despite the COVID restrictions. I wish IFOR would continue to maintain such an enthusiasm to support those who are willing to speak out about their issues, thus contributing to the peace movement." - Aku

"Introduction to the UN" is an intense and brilliant way to get to know and experience how the UN functions. To me was a chance to visit Geneva and its diplomatic atmosphere as well as lifestyle. In a multicultural environment, I had the chance to know more about local cases of human rights defenders such as the ones in South America witnessed by other participants and activists. I really enjoyed it and it was really inspiring!" - Silvia

"I enjoyed the program in general a lot as it helped me to get a deeper understanding of the UN in general and IFORs international work in particular. It was super interesting to slowly realize how complex international diplomacy can be and how strategic the work of NGOs like IFOR has to be to achieve any impact on a specific topic." - Marco

"This was an enlightening experience with a really engaged group, that was put together in the midst of covid restrictions, that nevertheless conveyed the reality of how the UN works and how it is possible for civil society to engage with it." - Peter

"The UN system is incredibly difficult and convoluted, an experience like this UN introductory week can demystify your preconceptions of the world of the United Nation and show you in very practical terms how you can use the different aspects of the UN system to further your own humanitarian and sociopolitical goals either personal or within an organization." - Iskra

Comment

IFOR addresses the UN Human Rights Council on the right to conscientious objection and the war in Ukraine

Comment

IFOR addresses the UN Human Rights Council on the right to conscientious objection and the war in Ukraine

On July 5th, during the interactive dialogue on the situation in Ukraine at the 50th session of the UN Human Rights Council, IFOR took the floor in the plenary to report on conscientious objectors sentenced in Ukraine for refusing to bear arms and called on UN Member States to contribute to a peaceful setting of the ongoing armed conflict.


Human Rights Council, 50th session 

Geneva, 5th July 2022 

Item 10: Interactive dialogue on the oral update of the High Commissioner on Ukraine Oral statement delivered by the International Fellowship of Reconciliation. 

Mr. President,  

International Fellowship of Reconciliation (IFOR) thanks the High Commissioner and her office for the oral presentation  on Ukraine. 

We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and mourn with them at this dramatic time of armed conflict. We stand in solidarity with all war resisters and conscientious objectors to military service in Ukraine as well as in Russia  and Belarus and call on the international community to provide them asylum; for instance IFOR sponsored a joint appeal  to European Institutions on this matter1. 

Freedom of thought, conscience and religion is a non-derogable right and, as is freedom of expression, it continues to apply  in situations of armed conflict. The right to conscientious objection to military service should be absolutely protected and  cannot be restricted as highlighted by the quadrennial analytical thematic report by OHCHR presented at this session2. 

IFOR is concerned about the violations of this right in Ukraine where general mobilization to the army is enforced without  any exceptions for conscientious objectors3. Evasion of conscription during mobilization is criminally punishable by  imprisonment from 3 to 5 years4. The pacifist Andrii Kucher and the evangelical Christian, [member of the church "Source  of Life"] Dmytro Kucherov were sentenced by Ukrainian courts for their refusal to bear arms with no respect to their  freedom of conscience5. 

IFOR is also concerned by the forced mobilization of conscripts in Ukrainian territory controlled by Russian affiliated  armed groups6. 

As previously stated7, war should be abolished because it is never a conflict resolution, neither in Ukraine nor in other  countries. UN Member States should urgently pursue a diplomatic way to peace negotiations and facilitate such a path which is within the United Nations purposes. 

Thank you.



Insights on the current warfare in Ukraine.

According to a recent report of UN HRMMU: "OHCHR is concerned that some conscripts forcibly mobilised in territory controlled by Russian affiliated armed groups are being prosecuted by Ukrainian authorities without due regard for applicable combatant immunity"

Learn more here.

If someone hides a Russian deserter in Ukraine (even Ukrainian-born one), that person could be charged by Ukrainian police in collaboration with the aggressor state.

Read more here.

Handing out calls for military mobilization at churches. If you failed to appear on call, you could be sentenced for evasion.

Read more here.


Insights on the individual cases reported in IFOR's statement

Sentence for Kucher Andrii Volodymyrovych

https://reyestr.court.gov.ua/Review/104351558

Case category No.303/2482/22: Criminal cases (from 01.01.2019); Criminal offenses in the

sphere of protection of state secrets, inviolability of state borders, provision of conscription

and mobilization; Evasion of conscription for military service during mobilization, for a

special period, for military service upon conscription of reservists in a special period.

Sent by the court:05/18/2022.

Registered:19.05.2022.

Published:05/20/2022.

Date of entry into force:06/20/2022

Number of court proceedings:1-kp/303/124/22

Number of criminal proceedings in the EDPR:12022071040000275

 

May 18, 2022, Mukachevo

 

Mukachevo City and District Court of Zakarpattia Oblast

 

- in the commission of a criminal offense (crime), provided for in Article 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine,

 

established:

 

The accused XX on March 13, 2022, being conscripted, arrived at the Mukachevo District Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, in connection with the announcement by the Decree of the President of Ukraine No. 69-2022 of February 24, 2022 of general mobilization and conscription for military service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. On the same day, 13/03/2022, XX, being in the premises of the Mukachevo District Territorial Center for Equipment and Social Support of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine at the address of the city of Mukachevo, str. Dukhnovycha, 89, having been duly notified by the employees of the above-mentioned center about the draft for military service during the general mobilization, as well as about the consequences of refusing to be drafted and undergo military service during the mobilization announced by the Decree of the President of Ukraine No. 69-2022 of 24.02. 2022, the latter reliably knowing that in accordance with the Decree of the President of Ukraine No.

64-2022 dated 24.02.2022 “On the introduction of martial law on the territory of Ukraine”, in connection with the military aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, with the aim of evading the draft for mobilization, without valid reasons, acting deliberately, in violation of the requirements of Article 65 of the Constitution of Ukraine, Article 1, 39 3 of the Law of Ukraine “On Military Duty and Military Service of Ukraine of March 25, 1992 No. 2232-ХІ, Article 22 of the Law of Ukraine “On mobilization training and mobilization”; dated October 21, 1993 No. 3543-ХІ, and Decree of the President of Ukraine “On general mobilization”; dated February 24, 2022 No. 69-2022, being applicable to military service, refused to receive a summons/call to send to the army and undergo military service - under such circumstances, evaded conscription for military service during mobilization in a special period.

Thus, XX committed a criminal offense (crime) provided for in Art. 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine- evasion of conscription for military service during mobilization in a special period.

Accused XX, his guilt in committing the criminal offense (crime) charged against him, provided for in Art. 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine fully admitted and showed that he really acted deliberately, aware of the illegal nature of his actions and their punishment, under the circumstances described in the indictment, evaded

conscription for military service during mobilization in a special period in connection with the fact that pacifist views and does not want to take up arms. He does not repent of what he has done, because it would contradict his views. At the same time, he asks not to punish him strictly and to postpone the execution of the sentence for one year, because he has something to do.

Recognizing that it is inexpedient to investigate other evidence regarding the factual circumstances of the case, which are not contested by anyone in the manner provided for in Art. 349 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine, to which the participants of the trial did not object, while clarifying the circumstances regarding the correct understanding of the content of these circumstances by the accused and other participants of the trial, in the absence of doubts about the voluntariness and truthfulness of their positions, explaining to them that in such a case they will be deprived of the right to challenge these factual circumstances of the case in the appeal

procedure, the court limited itself only to the questioning of the accused and the study of such materials of the case that characterize the person of the accused.

Evaluating the evidence collected in the case as a whole, the court comes to the conclusion that the actions of the accused are correctly classified as Art. 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, i.e. evasion of conscription for military service during mobilization in a special period, and his guilt has been proven and fully recognized by him.

When choosing the type and degree of punishment for the accused, the court takes into account the nature and degree of social danger of the criminal offense (crime) committed by him, all the circumstances of the case in their totality, data about the identity of the culprit, guided by the law.

Yes, XX is conscripted, fit for military service due to his state of health, not previously convicted, according to the pre-trial report of the authorized probation body, XX has been registered as an internally displaced person since March 11, 2022 in connection with the introduction of martial law in of Ukraine, he is not registered with a narcologist, psychiatrist or phisiologist, the risk of him committing a repeated criminal offense is “medium”, the risk of danger to society is “medium”.

Circumstances mitigating the punishment of the accused have not been established by the court.

Circumstances aggravating the punishment of the accused have not been established by the court.

Taking into account the above, guided by the principles of humanity, necessity and sufficiency of the punishment to correct the accused and prevent new criminal offenses, the court comes to the conclusion that the correction of the accused is possible without isolation from society and serving the sentence, since such cases under the given circumstances would be excessively severe punishment, and the

accused XX should be punished within the sanction of Art. 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine with the application of the probationary period (Article Ukraine) and imposing on him the obligations provided for in clauses 1, 2, part 1 of Article 76 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

No civil action has been filed in the case.

There are no material evidence and procedural costs.

Guided by: Art.368-374,376 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine, the court -

 

DECIDED:

XX, to be found guilty of committing a criminal offense (crime) provided for in Art. 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, imposing a penalty of imprisonment for 4 (four) years.

On the basis of Art. 75 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine to release the convicted XX from serving the sentence of probation imposed by this sentence, if he does not commit a new crime within 3 (three) years of the probationary period and fulfills the duties assigned to him, provided for in clauses 1, 2, part 1 of Article 76 of

the Criminal Code of Ukraine, 1) periodically appear for registration with the authorized body on probation; 2) notify the authorized probation authority about a change of place of residence and work.

Preventive measure against XX was not applied.

An appeal against the verdict may be filed with the Zakarpattia Court of Appeals through this court within thirty days from the day of its announcement.

The judgment of the court becomes legally binding after the expiry of the period for filing an appeal, if such an appeal has not been filed. In the event of an appeal, the court’s verdict, if it has not been annulled, becomes legally binding after the decision of the appellate court.

Participants in court proceedings have the right to receive a copy of the verdict in court. A copy of the verdict is delivered to the accused and the prosecutor immediately after its pronouncement.

 

Sentence for Kucherov Dmytro Mykolayovych

https://reyestr.court.gov.ua/Review/104846891

Case category No.398/1551/22: Criminal cases (from 01.01.2019); Criminal offenses in the sphere of protection of state secrets, inviolability of state borders, provision of conscription and mobilization; Evasion of conscription for military service during mobilization, for a special period, for military service upon conscription of reservists in a special period.

Sent by the court:06/21/2022.Registered:06/21/2022.Published:06/22/2022.

Number of court proceedings:1-kp/398/187/22

Number of criminal proceedings in the EDPR:12022121060000535

Case No: 398/1551/22

proceedings No: 1-kp/398/187/22

 

VERDICT

behalf of Ukraine

 

21 June 2022. the city of Oleksandria, the Oleksandria City and District Court of the Kirovohrad region,

 

XX , being conscripted, on April 29, 2022 at about 900:00, arrived at the Oleksandriysky District Territorial Center of Manpower and Social Support of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine at the address: st. Shevchenko, 85, Oleksandria, Kirovohrad Oblast to undergo a medical examination and clarify their credentials.

The employees of the above-mentioned center XX was informed about the conscription for military service during the general mobilization, as well as the consequences of refusing to be called up and undergo military service during the general mobilization, announced by the Decree of the President of Ukraine “On General Mobilization” No. 69-2022 dated 24.02.2022 .

XX, reliably knowing about the general mobilization announced by the Presidential Decree No. 69-2022 of 24.02.2022 “On the introduction of martial law on the territory of Ukraine”, in connection with the military aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, with the aim of evading the draft for mobilization, acting

deliberately, being aware of his actions, not having the right to postponement, in violation of the requirements of Article 65 of the Constitution of Ukraine, Articles 1, 39 of the Law of Ukraine “On Military Duty and Military Service of Ukraine of March 25, 1992 No. 2232-XII”, Art.1, Art.22 of the Law of Ukraine “On Mobilization Training and Mobilization” dated October 21, 1993 No. 3543-XII, and Decree of the President of Ukraine “On General Mobilization” No. 69-2022 dated February 24, 2022, being recognized as fit for military service in the presence of the employees of the Oleksandriysk District Territorial and a summons to be sent to the army for military service under general mobilization to order command No. : evasion of the draft for mobilization for a special period.

At the court session, XX fully admitted his guilt in committing the specified criminal offense, explained, as indicated above, added that he is a Christian, a member of the Church of God of Ukrpaina “Source of Life”, therefore he refused to be drafted, because he does not want to fight with weapons in his hands.

The testimony of the accused corresponds to the factual circumstances of the case and the charges brought against him, the parties to the criminal proceedings do not dispute them, and therefore, in accordance with part 3 of Art.349 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, the study of other evidence in the case was deemed inappropriate at the court hearing.

Thus, the court finds XX guilty of evading the call for mobilization for a special period, and qualifies his actions under Article 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

The court imposes a punishment within the limits established in the sanction of the article of the Special Part of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which provides for responsibility for the committed criminal offense, taking into account its degree of severity, the identity of the culprit and the circumstances mitigating and aggravating

the punishment. At the same time, a person who has committed a criminal offense must be given a punishment that is necessary and sufficient for his correction and prevention of new crimes.

Circumstances that in accordance with Art.67 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine aggravates the punishment of the accused XX has not been established.

Circumstances mitigating the punishment of the accused, in accordance with Part 1 Of Art. 66 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, there is sincere remorse and active assistance in solving the crime.

Studying the identity information of the accused XX, the court found that he is being held criminally liable for the first time, he is not registered with a narcologist or a psychiatrist; according to the place of actual residence is characterized positively; according to the information of the Oleksandriysk RV No. 1 of the branch of the

Probation Center of State Administration in the Kirovohrad region, it was established that XX, INFORMATION_1, is not registered in the Oleksandriysk RV No. 1 of the branch of the State Administration of Probation “Center of Probation” in the Kirovohrad region.

From the pre-trial report on the accused XX, drawn up by the Oleksandriyskiy RV No. 1 branch of the State institution “Probation Center” in the Kirovohrad region, it was established that the probation authority assessed the risk of the accused committing a repeated criminal offense as medium, the risk of danger to society, including for individuals persons also as an average. In the opinion of the probation body, correction of XX in the community is possible under the condition of imposing on him the obligations provided for in Clause 1, Clause 2, Part 1 of Art. 76 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

When sentencing the accused, the court is guided by the general principles of sentencing provided for in Art. 65 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine and takes into account the degree of gravity of the criminal offense committed by him, data on the identity of the culprit and the circumstances affecting his punishment.

According to Art. Code of Ukraine, a criminal offense provided for in Art. 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine is not a serious crime.

Taking into account the data on the identity of the accused, the circumstances that mitigate his punishment, taking into account the sincere remorse of XX and the desire to change his behaviour, preventing further violations of the law, the court came to the conclusion that the given circumstances testify to the possibility of

correction of the accused without isolation from society and serving the sentence, and hence the application to the accused of the provisions of Art. 75 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, however, with the supervision of him by the authorized probation authority at the place of residence during the probationary period, with the imposition of duties provided for in clauses 1, 2, part 1, part 2, part 3 of Art. .76 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

Such a punishment is fair and sufficient to achieve the goals of punishment defined in Article 50 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

The accused was not given a preventive measure during the trial.

No civil action has been filed.

The fate of physical evidence should be decided in accordance with Art. 100 CCP of Ukraine.

There are no procedural costs in criminal proceedings.

On the basis of the above, guided by Art. Art.349,368-371,373-376 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine, the court

 

RESOLVED:

to find XX guilty of the criminal offense provided for in Art. 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine and sentence him to 3 (three) years of imprisonment.

On the basis of Art.75, clauses 1, 2, part 1, clause 2, part 3 of Art.76 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine to release XX from serving the prescribed sentence, if he does not commit a new criminal offense during the probationary period of 1 (one) year and fulfills the duties assigned to him: periodically appear for registration with the authorized body on probation issues, notify the authorized body on probation issues about changing the place of residence and work, not to leave the borders of Ukraine without the consent of the authorized body on probation issues.

Material evidence: a copy of the journal of the delivery of mobilization orders to conscripts assigned to the team of the Oleksandriy RTCC and SP, an act of refusal to receive a mobilization order, a mobilization order, a summons, an examination card and a medical examination, which are attached to the materials of the criminal

proceedings (resolution on the recognition of physical evidence from 05/25/2022) to be left in the court file.

The court’s verdict can be appealed on the grounds provided for in Article 394 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine to the Kropyvnytskyi Court of Appeal within 30 days from the day of its pronouncement.

In the case of an appeal, the verdict, if it has not been cancelled, becomes legally binding after the decision of the appellate court.

Comment

Recap of IFOR participation in the 49th UN Human Rights Council

Comment

Recap of IFOR participation in the 49th UN Human Rights Council

The International Secretariat is pleased to present a summary of IFOR's recent involvement at the UN, in particular at the Human Rights Council. 

The Human Rights Council is an inter-governmental body within the United Nations system responsible for strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights around the globe and for addressing situations of human rights violations and make recommendations on them. The Council is made up of 47 United Nations Member States which are elected by the UN General Assembly and meets three times a year at the UN Office in Geneva. 

The  49th  session of the UN Human Rights Council has just concluded its working meetings. The session started on  February 28th and ended on  April 1st and the participation of the member States and civil society representatives has been hybrid mode. 

The session was characterized by an urgent debate on the situation in Ukraine; the issue of the war moved by Russia on Ukraine has been part of the following working session debates.

What follows is a list of the oral statements delivered or co-sponsored by IFOR during the session. At this session IFOR addressed issues such as the resistance to war, the right to conscientious objection, nuclear disarmament, peace negotiations, nonviolent action and presented cases referring to the specific issues in Ukraine, Eritrea, Colombia, Greece, Turkey, Western Sahara… IFOR has also taken the floor to speak about the Peace Community of San José de Apartadó on its 25th anniversary, highlighting specific struggles and violations of human rights it is currently facing.

*On April 7th 2022 the UN General Assembly has voted to suspend Russian UN HRC membership as a response to Russia invasion of and alleged rights abuses in Ukraine


IFOR joins "Appeal for Peace in Ukraine" at the UN

Click on the image for more information and to read the underived statement


IFOR takes the floor at the UN Human Rights Council on war resisters and nuclear threat

Click on the image for more information and to read the original statement


IFOR joins statement at the UN on Western Sahara

Click on the image for more information and to read the original statement


IFOR addresses the UN Human Rights Council on the right to refuse to kill

Click on the image for more information and to read the original statement


IFOR speaks at the UN about the Peace Community of San José de Apartadó on its 25th anniversary

Click on the image for more information and to read the original statement


IFOR raises concern at the UN over forced conscription in Eritrea

Click on the image for more information and to read the original statement


IFOR speaks at the UN calling on Greece to comply with conscientious objection international standards

Click on the image for more information and to read the original statement


"WAR SHOULD BE ABOLISHED!" IFOR speaks up at the UN on the right to conscientious objection in wartime

Click on the image for more information and to read the original statement


IFOR speaks at the UN on the fundamental rights of the people of Western Sahara

Click on the image for more information and to read the original statement

IFOR has also submitted a written statement to the 49th UN Human Rights Council concerning the Peace Community of San Joseé de Apartado and human rights violations.

You can read here this report "Colombia: New Threats Against The Peace Community Of San Jose De Apartado On Its 25th Anniversary", which has been received by the Secretary-General and has been circulated in accordance with Economic and Social Council resolution 1996/31, and registered officially on the UN website as A/HRC/49/NGO/239 .

You can read more about the 25th anniversary of the Peace Community here.

For information on IFOR's work at the UN you can contact its coordinator at zaira.zafarana@ifor.org


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Multilateralism and peace negotiations

Comment

Multilateralism and peace negotiations

We expect a genuine commitment to multilateralism and respect for fundamental international norms to be practised in a tangible way to achieve effective peace.
Weapons lead to war and increase it. Armed peace is not #peace.
International community should support peace negotiations and stop the war and let the UN to preside over the peace process.
!*! Urgent steps towards peace
In efforts to end the war in Ukraine, Secretary-General António Guterres has written separate letters to the leaders of #Russia and #Ukraine to request meetings with them in their respective capitals
Read more here https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/04/1116562
On Tuesday, 26 April, the UN Secretary-General will have a working meeting and lunch with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and will be received by President Putin in Moscow.
Mr. Guterres will also travel to Ukraine and he will have a working meeting with Foreign Minister Minister Dmytro Kuleba and will be received by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on 28 April.
Read more here https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/04/1116742

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